Association of American Educators Testifies Before Utah Senate Education Committee in Favor of SB 67

Alexandria, VA– The Association of American Educators (AAE), the largest, national non-union association for teachers, was pleased to testify in favor of Utah Senate Bill 67, a bill that would reform teacher evaluations in favor of performance based initiatives. AAE Utah Membership Director Charity Smith spoke in favor of the law based on membership surveys indicating the desire for increased transparency, accountability, and innovative instruction.

Implementing a policy known as "value-added," the bill would fundamentally change salary scales and evaluations based on quantified measures of student performance among other factors. In 2010, AAE surveyed members on this issue and found that while opposition against teacher evaluation based solely on student test scores is strong, the perception that educators do not want to be evaluated by test scores is a sweeping generalization that leaves many caveats unaddressed.

"Eighty percent of teachers surveyed support a value-added model of student assessment when student test scores are used as a part of teacher evaluation, said Charity Smith in detailing the AAE survey results. "Further, 62% believed that student test scores should be part of the criteria, second only to administrator review."

The 2010 AAE Membership Survey saw educators across the country embrace a value-added model that ensures teachers and schools get credit for not only leading their students to achieve high absolute levels of academic success, but also ensuring that students continue to make positive academic gains each year.

"This bill is a step in the right direction for Utah," said AAE Executive Director Gary Beckner. "Based on member feedback, AAE recommends a multi-pronged approach that would include faculty reviews, test scores, and level of education among other criteria. We are confident that Utah is moving in the right direction with SB 67."

The bill was approved in the Senate Education Committee and will now move to the Senate floor for a full vote.

The Association of American Educators is the largest national, non-union, professional educators' association, offering a modern approach to teacher representation and educational advocacy. AAE members are forward-thinking professionals who are committed to student-centered reform efforts including school/teacher choice, accountability and technology. AAE has members in all 50 states and welcomes professionals from all education entities. Membership is $15 per month which includes $2 million professional liability insurance, employment rights coverage, professional development resources as well as a host of other benefits. Visit aaeteachers.org for further information.