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Nine Didn't Seem So Bad

If you are a teacher or principal in NYS, you have probably found yourself in the same position. I spent last week entering state provided growth scores for teachers. I spent a few minutes this morning trying to guess where my own score would fall. Tony Sinanis, a principal from "downstate" published a blog entry that resonated with me yesterday. He talked about being a 9. A 9, according to NYSED, is the beginning of the effective range. Something like being in the deep part of the pool but still holding onto the side. I look up to Tony so I was relieved to be in such good company. You see, my state provided score was also a 9. I should have left it there. Instead, early this morning, I sketched out what my final score will be and it is in the developing range. Just barely...think kiddie pool. I was pretty upset when I first realized this today. But, then I thought of my teachers. I thought of the teachers whom I know are HIGHLY effective and did not earn that rating. I thought of the teachers who are EFFECTIVE and did not earn that rating. I thought of the teachers that we will be required to develop a TIP plan for this year. That's when I decided to look to my left and then to my right. This was my first year as a Principal. (My previous experience has been in support services and special education.) I never worked harder than I did last year. For my nine, I have amazing principals like Tony standing next to me. For my developing rating, I will stand next to some of my teachers. In both situations, I am in pretty good company.

Comments

  1. TonySinanisAugust 27, 2013 at 12:09 AM

    Lisa,
    Thank you so much for sharing your story. NYS, and specifically your school, are incredibly fortunate to have leaders like you. Leaders who are transparent. Leaders who are passionate. Leaders who are looking to serve their community. BRAVO! As a fellow NINE, I am proud to call you a colleague and friend!
    Tony

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownAugust 27, 2013 at 7:18 AM

      Thank you for being such a supportive peer and awesome part of my PLN.

      Delete

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