Superintendent Eileen Williams got high marks on her work leading the school department during her annual evaluation discussed at Wednesday’s school committee meeting.

Each year, members of the committee submit input on Williams on seven standards covering a range of her responsibilities.  Below are the results for the period of March 2003 to March 2004 as compiled by committee members Carol Love, Paul Desmond, Neil Johnson, John Heinstadt and John Magnarelli.

At the end of her evaluation, Williams thanked the members of the committee for their feedback and said that “whatever success I have [depends] on all members of the school department.”

On Monday, she added that as part of the budget process, the merit pay function for members of the school department was not funded, so the evaluation does not trigger a raise in her salary.

<b>Effective Instructional Leadership (Meets Expectations) </b>

The superintendent was noted for her strategic action plan and support of ongoing professional development.

 Implementation of the Understanding By Design teaching and evaluation model has been more successful this year, and was made more accountable because of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges  (NEASC) review. It appears that this education model is truly being utilized in the classroom in the teaching and learning process.

Dr. Williams reviews each teacher evaluation with the responsible administrator, providing vital feedback to the evaluation process.  Some members may need more specifics about this evaluation process and why this is beneficial to the system. I would suggest further discussion of the merits of this evaluation system at a future meeting.

<b>Effective Organizational Leadership   (Meets Expectations)</b>

Communication throughout the system was improved this year, as evidenced by the positive responses from the parent forums, the establishment of an MOU and playing a key role in relaying accurate information to the public.  Strategic planning continues to be a strength, facilitating constructive change and moving the system forward.

One of the NEASC recommendations mandated more decisions should made at the faculty level, “to increase teacher input and discussions about decisions that impact the school.”   The administrative team is constantly involved in making many major decisions for the system, but the faculty must be more involved as well. 

<b>Effective Administration and Management (Meets Expectations)</b>

Dr. Williams continues to make sound decisions in hiring and retaining excellent administrators, faculty and staff members.  The task of efficiently running the Duxbury Public Schools, as well as overseeing the school building project is commendable. 

Concerns were cited on the timing of key management and budget proposals to the school committee. More specifics on various budget line items and allowing more time for school committee members to contemplate these proposals were cited. As this was the first time in recent history that budget reductions were made, fine-tuning this approach for future budget sessions is expected. 

<b>Promotion of Equity and Diversity (Meets Expectations)</b>

Promoting equity among programs and learning opportunities for students was noted.  Also, developing more diverse special needs programs on our campus for our special needs students was highlighted. 

Diversity of all levels of academic ability must be considered when selecting programs and services to deliver to our students. 

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<b>Effective Relations with the Community:  (Meets Expectations)</b>

Improved communication once again was noted in this standard.  The establishment of the Memorandum of Understanding, frequent home/school letters and the DPS website have been enhanced.

More visibility in the community is needed to promote effective relationships with a wide variety of Duxbury residents.   Dr. Williams’ attendance at sporting events, music performances or drama productions will help broaden her base of support.

<b>Fulfillment of Professional Responsibilities (Notable Strength)</b>

Dr. Williams demonstrates enthusiasm for her own learning, models ethical behavior and promotes an atmosphere of self-respect.  Dr. Williams work as the President of the Board of Trustees of Brockton Hospital and her work with the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents is commendable.

<b>Leadership for Education Reform (Notable Strength)</b>

Dr. Williams clearly provides leadership related to the mandates of the Education Reform Act and the No Child Left Behind Act.  She keeps the SC advised of all pertinent aspects of education reform.  Dr. Williams also provides leadership for the strategic plan.