Calibration Resources

The Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS) 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. Each aspect of the observation cycle is included in this section.

Calibration Training Module

Get started by introducing yourself to the calibration process with this in-depth calibration training video & supplemental resources
 

Appraiser Calibration Training by ESCs

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the calibration process through the T-TESS Appraiser Calibration Training. Engage in multiple calibration exercises using the T-TESS rubric and two distinct protocols, allowing you to refine your scripting and evidence collection skills. This training emphasizes best practices and establishes an ongoing system of checks and balances. You'll have the chance to apply these concepts in your own setting and support their implementation effectively after completing the training.

NOTE: This training is only offered by Regional Education Service Centers (ESCs). Please contact your local ESC directly for dates and times.

Calibration Video Lessons

These lessons are designed to be used for appraiser calibrations and professional development to highlight and improve performance on each of the T-TESS domains/dimensions at both the teacher and appraiser levels.

Check out these Elementary, Middle School, and High School video lessons below to calibrate your rating ability. Be sure to download the evidence rating sheets.

 

18+ Life Skills Cooking Class

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

8th Grade Science

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

Pre-K English (CKLA)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

11th Grade Physics

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

18+ Life Skills Class

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

Pre-K Science with ELA Components

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

Kindergarten English Language Arts (CKLA)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

Kindergarten Math (Identifying 2D Shapes)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

8th Grade Math (Scatter Plots)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

4th Grade Reading (Pirate Story)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

1st Grade Dual Language Arts

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

2nd Grade ELA (Spelling)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

2nd Grade ELA (Making Predictions)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

3rd Grade Math Intervention

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

3rd Grade Reading Intervention

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

4th Grade ELA (Character Traits)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

4th Grade ELA (Spelling Patterns)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

4th Grade Math (Number Patterns)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

4th Grade Math (Fractions and Decimals)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

5th Grade Math (Murder Mystery Math)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

5th Grade Science

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

6th Grade Math

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

7th Grade (Avid Lesson)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

Middle School Science (Homeostasis)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

7th Grade Math (Pi and Circles)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

Middle School (Mariachi Lesson)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

High School AP Chemistry

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

High School Literature (Age of Romanticism)

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

High School EMT

Evidence Rating Sheet
 

High School Science

Evidence Rating Sheet