On the agenda for the Portland Public Schools Board at Monday evening’s board meeting are two items relating to Superintendent Carole Smith: her performance appraisal by the board and a three year contract extension. In the Board packet of material (here, page 11 of the business agenda) there are two resolutions, numbers 4504 and 4505, which read as follows:
Resolution No. 4504
Superintendent’s Performance Appraisal 2011
Recitals
- On May 22, 2008, by way of Resolution No. 3909, the Board of Education (“Board”) adopted superintendent performance standards based upon 2007 superintendent search criteria, the 2005-10 Strategic Plan, and key Board policies.
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The Board used these standards for Superintendent Smith’s first two performance appraisal periods (October 2007-May 2009 and June 2009-September 2010, respectfully). These standards also apply to the current performance appraisal period for October 2010-September 2011.
- The Board has reviewed the Superintendent’s performance in light of the aove performance standards and the progress of the District, and has revewed the appraisal with the Superintendent.
Resolution
The Board hereby adopts the 2011 Superintendent performance appraisal, a copy of which is on file in the District office.
And:
Resolution No. 4505
Extension of Employment Contract with Carole Smith, Superintendent of Portland Public Schools
Recitals
- In light of her strong performance, the Board of Education (“Board”) wishes to extend for three years Superintendent’s Smith’s current employment agreement. The term of Superintendent Smith’s new contract will run from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2014.
- The Board greatly appreciates Superintendent Smith’s service and dedication to Portland Public Schools (“District’).
Resolution
The Board hereby extends the employment agreement for Superintendent Smith through June 30, 2014. A copy of the employment agreement is on file in the District offices.
My thoughts:
(1) Carole Smith is among the nicest people in the world. She is always smiling and friendly. She is thoughtful, bright, and listens well. She seems to work well with the Board, District staff and the public. She has good political skills which have help guide the district in avoiding major controversies.
(2) I’d give her an “A plus” grade on meeting the standards relating to Resolution No. 3909 (here, pp 356-360). I could quibble about meeting some, but won’t. The main problem is that the Board did not give her any standards or performance indicators relating to adapting the District’s curriculum to a global economy or using technology (computers) to cut costs and expanding learning opportunities. I don’t think either the 2005-2010 Strategic Plan or other Board policies have done so either.
(3) So, for failing to expand the Mandarin immersion program or to create a high school study abroad program (not even a pilot one), and, thus, failing to lead the District in adapting its curriculum and culture to 21st century global economic realities, I’d knock her appraisal down one full grade to a “B.”
(4) And, for failing to move more aggressively with computers for students and online programs (especially independent of the traditional brick-and-mortar schools), I’d knock her down a half a grade to a “B minus.”
(5) I am for extending Smith’s contract. I’d prefer two more years, during which I would expect her to address, at a minimum, both the Mandarin immersion and study abroad issues. PPS can not afford the delay of another three years in expanding Mandarin immersion or sending high school students to study abroad. I would not favor giving her a raise.
(6) Although I have some significant difference with her over some of these issues, I join the Board in expressing my appreciation for her service and commitment.
Update 10/25/11: See Betsy Hammond's Oregonian article "Portland schools Superintendent Carole Smith lauded for performance during past year' (here)
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