The above organizational approach to implementing peer observations has had a success- ful impact amongst our faculty members. We have had a virtual 100% completion rate by instituting this as a norm, and teachers have been overwhelmingly positive in regards to this expectation. By tying in teamwork and technology, our school has been able to build upon a common practice of peer observations and by affirming each other. By connecting faculty and providing a new perspective to our teachers, our school has together raised instructional expectations while also providing much-needed appreciation and admiration for our staff members who rise to meet the ever-increasing demands placed on today’s educators.

References

Reeves, D. B. (2008). Reframing teacher leadership to improve your school. Alexandria, VA:

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Stronge, J.H. (2002). Qualities of effective teachers. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Wagner, T. & Kegan, R. (2006). Change leadership: a practical guide to transforming our

schools. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

Wiggins, G. & McTighe, J. (2007). Schooling by design: Mission, action, and achievement.

Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

William Sterrett, an elementary principal for Albemarle County Schools, is a former upper el- ementary teacher, middle school science teacher, and elementary assistant principal. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Asbury College in Wilmore, KY, and his Ph.D. from the Univer- sity of Virginia

Benjamin Williams, an assistant principal for Albemarle County Schools, is a former high school social studies teacher. He received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Virginia where he is currently pursuing his doctorate in Leadership and Administration studies.

Janelle Catlett, a former upper elementary teacher and technology teacher for twenty-five years, is a current Instructional Coach for Albemarle County Schools. She received her Bachelor’s in Edu- cation from the University of South Carolina.

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Virginia Educational Leadership

Vol. 7 No. 1

Spring 2010