Master Teacher

http://www.ode.state.oh.us/

Senate Bill 2 directed the Educator Standards Board to define a “master teacher” in a manner that can be used uniformly by all districts and to adopt multiple, equal-weighted criteria to use in determining whether a person is a master teacher.

The current Master Teacher program aligns with the new licensure structure effective January 2011. Successful completion of the MT program will satisfy one of the requirements for an advanced license.

Definition of a Master Teacher
From the Ohio Department of Education Program Overview (here)

To be designated as a Master Teacher in Ohio, eligible educators must clearly demonstrate each of the following criteria as described in the Ohio Standards for the Teaching Profession (http://esb.ode.state.oh.us ). Master Teachers will achieve exemplary scores in four of five areas on the scoring guide.

Consistent Leadership: Master Teachers ensure student learning and well being by participating in decision-making and initiating innovations and improvements for school change. They are leaders who empower and influence others. They engage in a variety of leadership roles and perform thoughtful stewardship responsibilities for the school community and the profession.

Focused Collaboration: Master Teachers work with educators, students, families and communities to create relationships; share knowledge, practice and responsibility; communicate effectively andsupport student learning. They respond to the needs of their colleagues and students in a timely and competent manner.

Distinguished Teaching - Focus on Students and Environment: Master Teachers analyze individual and group student development to connect instruction to students’ needs, interests and prior knowledge. They strive to create an environment that engages learners in inquiry, promotes high levels of learning for all students and creates a culture of civility and success.

Distinguished Teaching - Focus on Content, Instruction and Assessment: Master Teachers have a deep and reflective understanding of the academic content they teach. They use multiple assessments to evaluate student learning and inform instruction. They continually reflect on student outcomes and make decisions to promote high levels of learning for all students.

Continued Professional Growth: Master Teachers engage in continuous professional development and reflection. They use multiple resources to shape the focus and goals of their professional development including student learning, assessment data, researched best practices and school and district goals. They evaluate their personal growth, understanding and application of knowledge and develop an appropriate professional plan.