Frequency of Evaluations : Maryland

Analysis of Maryland's policies

Regrettably, Maryland does not ensure that all teachers are evaluated annually.

Although teachers holding standard certificates in Maryland must be evaluated annually, those holding advanced certificates must only be evaluated twice during the five-year validity period of their license, with the first evaluation occurring during the initial year of the certificate. All evaluations must be based on at least two observations. 

Maryland requires new teachers to be evaluated at least twice a year. Probationary teachers must be formally evaluated, including a conference, at least once a semester.

**Take out reference to 1973-49
New teachers are evaluated once a year, with two observations. 
Annotated Code of MD
6-202(b)(2)

Citation

COMAR 13a.07.04.02 Maryland Board of Education Resolution #1973-49

Recommendations for Maryland

Require annual formal evaluations for all teachers.
All teachers in Maryland should be evaluated annually, regardless of the type of license they hold. Rather than treated as mere formalities, these teacher evaluations should serve as important tools for rewarding good teachers, helping average teachers improve and holding weak teachers accountable for poor performance.  

Consider feasibility of multiple evaluation ratings in a single year for new teachers.
As evaluation instruments become more data driven, it may not be feasible to issue multiple formal evaluation ratings during a single year.  While multiple observations with feedback are critical, applicable student data will likely not be available to support multiple ratings.  

State response to our analysis

Maryland recognized the factual accuracy of this analysis. The state added that 22 of 24 local school systems have agreed to the terms of its Race to the Top application, which articulates the following: "Every teacher and principal shall be evaluated at least once annually."  

Maryland noted that it is under continuing discussion by the Educator Effectiveness Council as to how this should be accomplished. Pilot projects in seven school systems in 2011-2012 from which data will be collected will be followed, with full no-fault implementation in all Maryland districts in 2012-2013, and full implementation in 2013-2014. The state's intent is for all local school systems to commit to annual evaluations.