What is the purpose of the HOUSSE Rubric in Georgia?
The HOUSSE Rubric serves as a standardized evaluation tool to assess the competency of veteran teachers in core academic subjects. It is particularly useful for teachers who meet certification requirements but do not fulfill the content or testing criteria to be deemed “highly qualified.” This rubric helps ensure that students receive instruction from qualified educators.
Who is eligible to use the HOUSSE Rubric?
The HOUSSE Rubric is available for a select group of educators, including veteran special education teachers who are the teacher of record for multiple subjects, returning retired teachers, and those holding life certificates. Regular education teachers may also use the rubric but cannot change their certification status through it.
How many years of experience are required for teachers using the HOUSSE Rubric?
Teachers must have at least three years of successful experience teaching in the core academic content area they wish to be evaluated on. This experience should be documented through annual performance evaluations in a public or private P-12 school setting.
What types of activities can count towards the HOUSSE evaluation?
Activities must be professional and relevant to the core academic subject. Examples include serving on committees that develop or align content standards, participating in workshops, or teaching college-level courses. These activities must have occurred within the last seven years, although there is no time limit on Professional Learning Units (PLUs) earned.
Can the HOUSSE Rubric be used to assess special education teachers?
Yes, special education teachers can use the HOUSSE Rubric to demonstrate their qualifications and to add core academic content concentrations to their consultative special education certificates. The evaluation must be conducted by the local education agency (LEA) administrator.
What documentation is required when completing the HOUSSE Rubric?
A complete HOUSSE Rubric must be filled out for each core academic content area, which includes subjects like English, mathematics, and science. Additionally, the rubric requires signatures from the teacher, the preparer, and the principal or superintendent, confirming that all information is accurate and complete.
How does the HOUSSE Rubric impact a teacher's certification status?
While the HOUSSE Rubric can help veteran teachers demonstrate their qualifications, it does not change the certification status of regular education teachers. Instead, it provides a pathway for them to be assessed as “highly qualified” based on their experience and contributions in their respective content areas.