Reply #7: Even within the same school there will be differences

[Catshrink]

For example, a teacher with AP and Honors students will most likely be rated more highly effective than one who teacher "regular" or lower level kids. We know this is the danger in using one test to make a determination of which teachers are "highly effective." It's apples and oranges.

And, for those about to chime in and say "you're saying low SES kids or 'regular' or sped students can't achieve," listen up: I'm not saying that. I'm saying under the present system, these two groups of students most likely test differently because of the advantages one group has compared to the other. Take the low SES kids - or the others mentioned - give them the same adavantages (involved parents, good nutrition, stimulating environments, etc.) and you'll see those kids achieve as well.