Calibration Training Module is designed to be used for appraiser calibrations and professional development.
What is T-TESS?
T-TESS strives to capture the holistic nature of teaching – the idea that a constant feedback loop exists between teachers and students, and gauging the effectiveness of teachers requires a consistent focus on how students respond to their teacher’s instructional practices.
For those reasons, each of the observable domains in T-TESS focuses on teachers and students rather than separating them out into separate domains.
Ultimately, T-TESS is a process that seeks to develop habits of continuous improvement, and the process itself best leads to that outcome when appraisers and teachers focus on evidence-based feedback and professional development decisions based on that feedback through ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
The Evaluation Process
The T-TESS System observation cycle includes a pre-conference, observation and post-conference, as the recommended cycle for supporting teachers. During the observation, appraisers capture detailed, strategically-scripted evidence and use this evidence in conjunction with the T-TESS dimensions and descriptors of the rubric to determine performance levels.
Goal-Setting and Professional Development Plan
The Evaluation Cycle (pre-conference, observation, post-conference)
Student Growth Measure
The T-TESS Rubric
The T-TESS Rubric consists of 4 Domains and 16 Dimensions, each with specific descriptors and 5 performance levels: Distinguished, Accomplished, Proficient, Developing, and Improvement Needed.
Planning
Domain 1- Standards and Alignment
- Data and Assessment
- Knowledge of Students
- Activities
Instruction
Domain 2- Achieving Expectations
- Content Knowledge and Expertise
- Communication
- Differentiation
- Monitor and Adjust
Learning Environment
Domain 3- Classroom Environment, Routines and Procedures
- Managing Student Behavior
- Classroom Culture
Professional Practices and Responsibilities
Domain 4- Professional Demeanor and Ethics
- Goal Setting
- Professional Development
- School Community Involvement
Calibration and Professional Growth
Advance your instruction and gain additional insight into the T-TESS appraisal process with a calibration training module, ESC provided trainings, and a collection of classroom lesson examples- at various grade levels- along with T-TESS rater scores to promote better calibration.
Ready to become a certified T-TESS Appraiser?
Contact your local ESC to view upcoming training dates and details