How Can We Make Teacher Observations More Encouraging, More Productive, and Less Threatening?

from Classroom Q and A · host BAM Radio Network

New and veteran teachers generally agree that performance observations are just slightly more appealing than a root canal. In this episode, we invite a panel of teachers and administrators to explore ways to make the practice more productive and less distressing? Follow on Twitter: @elvisepps @huels_ryan @Jenschwanke @HarrisLeads @DrYemiS @jonHarper70bd@larryferlazzo @bamradionetwork Dr. Elvis Epps serves as the Principal at Lake Worth Community High School in the School District of Palm Beach. He has been a teacher, assistant principal, and principal for more than 28 years. He is a veteran of the US Navy. Ryan Huels is an Assistant Principal at Oregon Elementary School in Oregon, Illinois in Northwest Illinois. Prior to venturing into administration, Ryan was a First-grade teacher and high school basketball coach. He has a passion for creating a student-centered learning environment in his building fostered on creating positive relationships with students, staff, and stakeholders. Jennifer Schwanke has been an educator for 20 years, teaching or leading at all levels. She is the author of You’re the Principal! Now What? Strategies and Solutions for New School Leaders. In addition to her blog, she publishes frequently on the Choice Literacy and Lead Literacy websites as well as Education Week Teacher, Principal, and Principal Navigator. Dr. Denita Harris is a Curriculum Coordinator for the MSD of Wayne Township, Indianapolis, Indiana. She has over 20 years of experience as a teacher, assistant principal, and district-level administrator. She is the recipient of the 2019 INTESOL (Indiana Teacher of English to Speakers of Other Languages) Best of the Best in K-12 Education. Adeyemi Stembridge, PhD is an educational consultant specializing in equity-focused school-improvement. He is a coach and thought-partner to teachers and administrators with an interest in the design of culturally responsive systems and learning experiences for students.