The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) has issued information and a revised timeframe for schools to review data to be included in its new PA School Performance Profile web site (SPP). The profile on the web site will contain the building level data necessary as a component of the state’s new teacher evaluation system under Act 82 of 2012. Since the Educator Effectiveness academic score will be derived from the SPP, it is of important that schools take the time to verify the data. PDE compiled the data from information previously submitted by schools to PIMS. The initial release to schools is expected to be in December with finalization and a public release of the website in spring of 2013.

Each LEA Superintendent/CEO was to receive an email signaling the opening of the verification window. The email includes a link to the LEA’s data elements, as well as instructions to conduct verification and provide an electronic signoff by the LEA Superintendent/CEO.

Previously, PDE had indicated that the data verification window was from Nov. 7-16; however, the timeline has been revised. The verification window is Nov. 12-19, and the data will be from the 2011-12 school year. There are approximately 110 elements per school (academic and demographic data) and approximately 40 elements per district (district level demographic data) to be reviewed.

This is an opportunity to review the data provided both by PIMS and other sources and verify that it concurs with previously submitted data and is accurate. PDE will review the responses and take appropriate action, and schools will receive a confirmation of any corrections made by PDE. Questions should be directed to Dr. Michele Sellitto, assistant director for the Bureau of Teaching and Learning, at msellitto@pa.gov or 717-772-0030.

Source: PSBA Legislative Report, Nov. 8, 2012.