A Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) is a process by which teachers can be supported to develop areas of their practice that have been identified as not being at the expected level according to the professional standards for Cook Islands Teachers.
The intention of a PIP is to identify areas of sub-standard performance and provide resources and intervention support programmes which will give teachers the opportunity to reach the expected standard for a teacher of their experience.
A review by the Ministry of Education at the end of the PIP is required to ensure that staff who have been placed on a PIP are consistently demonstrating the relevant professional standards and providing quality learning and teaching opportunities to students.
The following is the process by which an end of PIP review for a classroom teacher will be conducted:
1. The classroom observation checklist, which is used as part of the normal school review process, will be utilized for the purpose of observations at the conclusion of the PIP.
2. The teacher will be observed at least twice. One of these observations will be timetabled, the other will occur at anytime within an indicated 2-3 day period.
3. Where practicable, the teacher will be observed by more than one Review Officer.
4. The Review Officer may also ask for additional meetings with the staff member concerned to review documentation.
5. The Review Officer may also seek feedback from the Principal and/or other senior staff with whom the teacher works.
Outcome of the Process
1. If the Review Team, after consideration of all the evidence, believe that the teacher has demonstrated the required professional standard, they will recommend to the CEO that the teacher be returned to the standard review process in the future.
2. If the Review Team believe that significant progress has been made, but still have some concerns, they may recommend a further follow up visit within six weeks to finalise their report.
3. If the Review Team believe that, through no fault of the teacher concerned, inadequate support has been provided, as long as some level of progress has been seen, an extension of the PIP period for up to a maximum of 8 weeks will be considered.
4. If the Review Team believe that significant progress has not been made and the evidence suggests that further remedial opportunity will not lead to improvement, an evidence report will be provided to the Secretary for a decision on the continued registration of the teacher.
