Union officials were concerned that parents would be asked to evaluate a teacher's competence in a particular subject. Under a compromise between the School Board and the union, parents will be asked to respond to 20 questions that hone in on their relationship with their school. For example, parents will be asked whether teachers are available for meetings when parents request them. The form also asks if teachers call parents to report problems with a child's school work or attendance. Parents are to return completed forms to their children's teachers, who, in turn, are expected to bring the forms to evaluation sessions with their principal.
Parents have the option of sending a copy of the form to principals.
Adam Urbanski, president of the Rochester Teachers Association, told Education Week that the agreement likely will encourage parents and teachers to communicate with each other, which will benefit students. Rochester Schools Supt. Clifford Janey also points out that parent feedback on teachers may help the district pinpoint areas that are working or need improvement. Parents' comments make up one of four areas of teacher evaluation. The others are pedagogy, knowledge of subject matter and school-professional contributions.