The assessment process used by the New Haven USD has been modified for beginning teachers and interns in the BTSA program. Assessments are also conducted by site mentor teachers. Informal observations are conducted by partner teachers and other identified support specialists. Assessment training is provided by the BTSA specialists. Each beginning teacher receives support from a Support Team comprised of a BTSA Specialist, a partner teacher, a site mentor teacher, and other identified support specialists.
Administrators are also support providers.
Through this process the beginning teacher identifies areas within the six domains of the Draft Framework that they would like to focus on. The IIP is revisited mid-year and the support team reviews goals and identifies continued support. Support activities are identified to support the new teacher in developing skills in these focused areas. Program activities include a five-day new teacher orientation, district staff development opportunities, ongoing peer coaching and assistance, monthly after school beginning teacher meetings, university and county office classes, and new teacher series on classroom management. Release time is provided on a regular basis at sites to provide opportunities for mentors and partner teachers to work with new teachers in their classroom, model lessons, observe, and conference.