Formal classroom observations by administrators are a part of the evaluation process. At the end of the year an evaluation conference takes place for the teacher and administrator to review the teacher s strengths and identify areas of improvement. Larkspur District administrators are certified competent to evaluate. They attend workshops and training programs to improve their skills in order to help teachers become more effective in the classroom. Teachers participate in a variety of professional development activities which focus on areas of academic curriculum development, teaching strategies, assessment, and technology.
New teachers receive support from mentor teachers.
Professional development is a requirement for advancement on the salary schedule. Classroom Discipline Neil Cummins Elementary creates a positive school learning environment where students feel safe and can be successful. Academic and behavioral expectations are clearly communicated to students and parents at the beginning of each school year. Expectations for students continue to be communicated, modeled, and reinforced by all staff members throughout the year. Students in grades 1-5 and their parents read and sign a copy of the school rules the first week of the school year or upon enrollment.