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DeSoto Independent School District is working to redefine teacher compensation. In an industry with a compensation model that places emphasis on years of experience in the classroom, DeSoto ISD has designed a more holistic method of evaluating and rewarding teacher performance and excellence.
The DeSoto ISD SEAL, or Systems for Effectiveness and Achievement in Learning, takes into account teacher attendance, teacher performance, student experience, campus performance and teacher growth and development.
The evaluation systems expands on the state-mandated T-TESS teacher evaluation system and explores other factors that contribute to the measure and evaluation of teacher effectiveness.
Because the district emphasizes its recruitment and retention of quality teachers who have the ability to facilitate individualized learning experiences, SEAL not only provides a means by which to reward those teachers but a tool by which to provide coaching and feedback ensuring that the district is using the evaluative touchpoints in a way the promotes growth and teacher development.
As based on performance measures taken during the 2016-2017 school year, DeSoto ISD administrators issued more than $175,000 in bonuses to teachers across DeSoto ISD as a kickoff to the Oct. 30 Staff Development Day.
Due to the DeSoto ISD SEAL Compensation Model, DeSoto ISD campuses were awarded bonuses as follows:
- DeSoto West MS: $32,063.02
- Cockrell Hill ES: $14, 234.84
- Amber Terrace: $11, 152.80
- Moates ES: $27, 609. 08
- Woodridge ES: $14, 034. 24
- DeSoto East MS: $12, 450. 96
- DeSoto High School: $63, 196.33
In addition to issuing the teacher bonuses, district administrators used this all-staff assembly to reiterate messages of positive organizational culture and expectation, ensuring to communicate the vision, mission and goals for district employees.
Staff members recognized in the “Eagles Caught Caring” effort include:
- Rose Anderson
- Eduardo Conde
- Marchello Eans
- Dawn Eugene
- Cynthia Garrison
- Jirus Guy
- Courtney Jacobs
- Cindy Sanchez
- Anthony Woodson
Cindy Sanchez was also recently named the 6A Region 1 District 7 Team Tennis Coach of the Year.