TAP System (The System for Teacher and Student Advancement)

TAP: The System for Teacher and Student Advancement is a comprehensive educator effectiveness model designed to improve teacher quality and student achievement. The intervention targets teachers and school administrators in K-8 schools, primarily high-need schools with high percentages of economically disadvantaged students. TAP includes four core elements: (1) multiple career paths where skilled teachers serve as master and mentor teachers, providing leadership and support; (2) ongoing applied professional growth through weekly cluster group meetings led by master and mentor teachers; (3) instructionally focused accountability with multiple classroom observations per year by trained evaluators using research-based rubrics; and (4) performance-based compensation where teachers earn bonuses based on classroom observation scores, student achievement growth, and schoolwide growth. Teachers are observed 3-4 times per year by multiple certified raters (principals, master teachers, mentor teachers) using 19 indicators of instructional practice. Master and mentor teachers receive training and certification to conduct evaluations and lead professional development.