Rapid Response: Summative Teacher Evaluation

This resource was created in response to a request: "What research is available on summative teacher evaluation, specifically how long an observation should be conducted and how many are required for validity? What exists in other states?" In response to this request, the Southeast Comprehensive Center (SECC) queried state departments of education (SDEs) and other organizations throughout the U.S. by e-mail and telephone. The SECC also searched numerous Web sites that focus on teacher quality, teacher evaluation, and professional development. This report contains a synopsis of the findings on summative evaluation, a table of the information obtained from contacts and Web sites, and descriptions of resources and references that provide additional information on teacher evaluation processes, tools, and programs.