Spotlight Research: Assessing the Value of Value-Added ModelsJudge teachers on how students do on standardized tests? That's the job of the VAM
It’s better known by its acronym these days and not easy to explain anyway, but get used to the term "value-added model" (VAM) when it comes to how New Jersey and other states determine what makes a good teacher.
VAM, in brief, is a method of judging teachers’ performance by how much their students improve (or not) on standardized tests. And it has been embraced by a number of states, not to mention the federal government, as a central component in any valid teacher evaluation system.
Needless to say, it’s also very controversial. And while New Jersey is not there yet, its leaders are now weighing VAM pros and cons as part of Gov. Chris Christie’s proposals to revamp the teacher
Latest Version of School Voucher Bill Heads for Senate Budget Committee
Backers say it has the votes to clear committee, but tougher battles await the controversial legislation.
