On Teacher Quality in Independent Schools

Abstract

Independent schools pride themselves on providing a unique educational experience for students, one that is robust and mission-driven and capitalizes on lower student-to-teacher ratios that allow for more personalized learning and high-quality teachers. Numerous studies measure teacher effectiveness in public schools, yet there is little research on teacher quality in independent schools. This study finds that independent schools use four key characteristics to describe high-quality teachers: (a) strong relationships with students, (b) strong pedagogical knowledge and content expertise, (c) a growth mind-set, and (d) the ability to fit well within the school's culture. We also examine school practices and find that some commonly used activities for recruitment and selection are intended to identify the key characteristics of high-quality teachers. Administrators use demonstration lessons and interviews to assess candidates’ abilities to develop strong relationships with students and their pedagogical knowledge and content expertise. However, we find that practices around teacher evaluation are inconsistent.

Notes

In the quotes from respondents, participants’ schools are identified as “B.” (Bear Lake Academy), “M.” (Milborn Day School), “M.V.” (Mountain Valley), “P.” (Parker School for Girls), “R.” (Riverside Preparatory), “T.” (Teachers of the Future), and “W.” (William Butler School). All school names are fictional to protect anonymity.

Murphy describes “academic press” as a school's culture of high expectations for all student learning and achievement.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Matt Balossi

Matt Balossi serves Sage Hill School in Newport Beach, California, as the Dean of Faculty. He continues to pursue his research interests in teachers, teaching, teacher growth, and professional development in theory and in practice.

Natalia R. Hernandez

Natalia R. Hernandez has over 20 years of experience in public, international, and independent school administration. She is currently Assistant Head of School at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans where she resides with her husband and two daughters.