The New Jersey Educator Evaluation Review Task Force was established following the passage of A3413/S2082, signed by Governor Murphy on May 17, 2024. The legislation tasked the Task Force with examining the educator evaluation process, gathering and evaluating data, and making recommendations for the annual evaluation process for teachers, principals, assistant principals, and vice principals as per the "TEACHNJ Act," P.L.2012, c.264 (C.18A:6-117 et al.).
The committee comprised thirteen individuals representing various organizations: three representatives from the New Jersey Education Association (including two full-time teachers), three from the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association (including a principal and vice-principal), along with representatives from the New Jersey School Boards Association, the New Jersey Association of School Administrators, the Garden State Coalition of Schools, and the American Federation of Teachers. Additionally, three members were appointed by the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the General Assembly, and the Governor.
Starting on July 16, 2024, this group engaged in ten weeks of research, analysis, discussion, and writing to complete its recommendations by September 30, 2024.
In a joint statement supporting these recommendations, several education organizations emphasized that these suggestions mark both an end to one phase and a beginning to another depending on their reception and potential implementation.
"The Task Force’s recommendations acknowledge the strong statutory framework provided by the 2012 TEACH NJ ACT," they stated. They also noted that changes in educational practice necessitate a review and update of the current educator evaluation system under TEACHNJ and AchieveNJ.
The recommendations aim to invigorate student learning through professional development and a collaborative approach to evaluations while maintaining a focus on analyzing student growth. The proposals also seek to reduce administrative burdens on educators that detract from promoting student learning.
"We look forward to the coming months," they added. "We encourage all parties to remember that time is of the essence as these recommendations are considered." They pledged continued collaboration towards enhancing quality teaching and learning in every New Jersey school.
This statement was endorsed by:
New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association
New Jersey Education Association
Garden State Coalition of Schools
New Jersey Association of School Administrators
New Jersey School Boards Association
American Federation of Teachers
