The Teaching Review and Improvement Program (TRIP) is a positive approach to encourage self-improvement and create a continuous focus on improved instruction. The Greendale School District recognizes evaluation as part of professional growth. The building principal and individual teacher share responsibility for this procedure. The Greendale School District is committed to academic rigor placing a strong emphasis on high expectation in each and every educational program in order to promote student achievement. The teacher evaluation system is designed to support high expectations for teaching excellence and professional practice. If students are to be prepared for success in the future, the district and all staff must challenge themselves to design and implement programs that will motivate every child to achieve at his or her level of capability.

The process that will be used for supervision, evaluation, and development of professional staff is based on Charlotte Danielson's Enhancing Professional Practice: A Framework for Teaching. This work is based on consultation with expert practitioners and researchers including those aspects of teaching that are expected of experienced as well as that of beginning teachers.

Teacher evaluation and Professional Growth are based on the belief that the knowledge base of teachers and the effective use of their skills and abilities are valuable assets of the Greendale Public Schools. The major purposes of an evaluation system are to improve the quality of teaching provided to students, to recognize excellence in instructional practices, and to provide a process for dealing with inadequate performance. The experience should be positive for the teacher and evaluator, creating a climate of respect, professional growth, and cooperation.

Teacher performance evaluation is important in enhancing student learning. Growth is considered ongoing, and there is a difference between evaluation and Professional Growth. The evaluation process emphasizes expectations and responsibilities that directly affect students and the learning process. The evaluation process also extends to accountability with students, families, the community, and colleagues resulting in a positive school environment.

The evaluation and supervision process should be supportive and collaborative and allow for creativity and innovation. While general evaluative procedures will be uniform and consistent, there is a need for a range of options or choices for teachers’ growth. Each teacher has unique characteristics as an educator and these characteristics must be considered in the evaluation procedure based on a common set of performance standards for all teachers within a certain time period. The Greendale School District and the Greendale Education Association are committed to support every employee through staff development, time for collaboration, and opportunities for professional growth.