It's a real partnership!
An external evaluator functions as a full member of your evaluation team while also serving as an independent and objective voice. Be clear on the skills and knowledge your evaluator should bring to the partnership, and figure out what key information about the district you will need to share.
Resources
SAMPLE MATERIAL
Why Hire an External Evaluator? (.pdf 306.1 KB)
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of using an external evaluator, and review the qualities you should look for in selecting one.
TOOL
Deciding on Criteria for Selecting an Evaluator (.doc 71.5 KB)
Review important criteria for selecting an evaluator to ensure that the person you hire is objective, experienced, and credible in the evaluation field.
TOOL
Defining District Context for an Evaluator (.doc 66.5 KB)
Prepare answers to common questions asked by an external evaluator to prepare an evaluation plan that is appropriate for your district.
SAMPLE MATERIAL
Who Does What in This Evaluation? (.pdf 236 KB)
Review these sample materials to help you determine roles and responsibilities for your evaluation.
Extra Resources for MSAP Rigorous Evaluation
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Find an evaluator with expertise in rigorous evaluation of educational programs. This helps to ensure that selection of comparison sites, outcome measures, and other design features are appropriate for the program being evaluated.
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The program director should identify and hire an evaluator at the earliest stage possible when preparing the grant application. This approach enables the evaluator to work with district staff to develop a sound evaluation design for appropriate outcomes using the most effective methods.
VIGNETTE
Choosing an Evaluator for Rigorous Evaluation (.pdf 344.7 KB)
Check out the selection criteria and sample application used to determine the MSAP rigorous evaluator for one district's magnet program.
