Complex Observation is Out! AK District Opts for Simple, Robust Solution

Oct. 9, 2012 - PRLog -- ST. PETERSBURG, FL – OCTOBER 9, 2012 – Observe4success, a leading provider of easy-to-use, classroom observation and walkthrough software is pleased to announce the adoption and implementation of its newest platform in Petersburg City Schools. Dr. Robert Thomason, Superintendent of Petersburg City School District in Petersburg, Alaska believes that complexity is not the answer when it comes to classroom observations and walkthroughs. They have always believed that simple is best, but finding a simple tool that allows for robust and comprehensive data collection is not as easy as it sounds. That was until they found observe4success.
Petersburg City Schools began with a 4-month pilot of the observe4success software and moved to implement it district wide for the 2012-2013 school year. “observe4success is not a complex program” says Dr. Thomason “in fact, some may call it a simplistic vehicle; a statement with which we have always humbly disagreed.” After reading a number of recent articles disputing the necessity of cumbersome, complex evaluations and observations and offering immense support for simplifying the process, Dr. Thomason is confident that Petersburg City School District is on the right track. “This really feels like validation of the path we are taking and we believe that our use of observe4success is central to not only the data collection process but also our success in utilizing the data to more effectively help our teachers.”
Considered one of the best classroom walkthrough software packages available today, observe4success melds the benefits of technology, research-based content, fully customizable observation forms, and graphic reports. This offers educators and administrators the clearest means of supporting and improving the teaching process.
Abby Sterensis, Vice President at observe4success remarks,“ We are thrilled to have such a forward thinking district expand upon its initial pilot to full district wide implementation of observe4success’ system.”  She continues, “During our many conversations, it was clear that Dr. Thomason’s team puts a high priority on supporting their faculty and students. Observe4success is very excited to be a part of their vision of what the future holds for their schools!” Dr. Thomason credits observe4success for a change in the quality and frequency of classroom observation data collected. “The simplicity of the system means that principals can be in the classroom more often. We are finally collecting data that is meaningful to both our district and our teachers!”
Developed by educators for educators, observe4success started as a grassroots effort to capture and systemically report the essence of classroom culture and instructional practice so that administrators and peer observers could easily grasp classroom characteristics. With observation data collected, stored, and sorted, administrators and teacher work together to identify strengths to be highlighted and weaknesses to support. Current research encourages continuous improvement to support instructional practices while implementing exemplary teaching practices, observe4success offers the tools to make these efforts seamless.
To learn more or to schedule a demonstration please visit: http://www.observe4success.com
About observe4success
observe4success is the best classroom walkthrough software on the market today and truly is a collaborative tool for administrators and teachers in the 21st century.
observe4success is a practical, real-world, simple, web-based tool that educators can use to observe, encourage, enhance, and sustain effective instructional practice and classroom cultures in school communities. observe4success uniquely combines the newest technology, content that is easily understood (and now completely customizable!), and meaningful graphic reports to support and assist teachers as both administrators and teachers study and improve the craft of teaching.

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