Back

TNTP and The Education Trust Co-Host Panel on Equitable Access

In order to close the achievement and opportunity gaps for the nation’s highest-need students, it’s essential that states and districts eliminate educational disparities by giving all students access to top teachers. While many states have made significant progress toward more meaningful teacher evaluation systems, far fewer have ensured that the neediest students are being taught by teachers with proven records of effectiveness. 
 
The webinar shared expertise from district leaders at the Houston Independent School District and District of Columbia Public Schools, who have invested significant resources into improving recruiting and staffing practices, teacher evaluations, and professional development offerings while also helping their top teachers build long, successful careers in high-need schools.
 
Through the strategies highlighted by our panelists, participants will gain insights about practical tools and systems that districts can use to ensure that all students – regardless of zip code – have consistent access to effective teachers. 
 
Panelists included:
  • Dr. Terry Grier, Superintendent, Houston Independent School District (HISD)
  • Dr. Rodney Watson, Chief Human Resources Officer, HISD
  • Jason Kamras, Chief of Human Capital, District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS)
  • Scott Thompson, Deputy Chief of Human Capital for Teacher Effectiveness, DCPS
  • Sonja Brookins Santelises, vice president for K-12 policy and practice, The Education Trust
  • Crystal Harmon, Vice President, Performance Management, TNTP

Download the presentation »

Read next

Imali Ariyarathne, seventh-grade teacher at Langston Hughes Academy, stands in front of her students while introducing them to the captivating world of science

Imali Ariyarathne, seventh-grade teacher at Langston Hughes Academy, introduces her students to the captivating world of science.

About TNTP

TNTP is the nation’s leading research, policy, and consulting organization dedicated to transforming America’s public education system, so that every generation thrives.

Today, we work side-by-side with educators, system leaders, and communities across 39 states and over 6,000 districts nationwide to reach ambitious goals for student success.

Yet the possibilities we imagine push far beyond the walls of school and the education field alone. We are catalyzing a movement across sectors to create multiple pathways for young people to achieve academic, economic, and social mobility.

Learn More About TNTP