Session 1: Rethinking Teacher Evaluation 

Most teacher evaluation systems fall short—they take too much time, create stress, and don’t actually help teachers grow. In this session, we’ll explore why traditional evaluation models fail and what independent schools can do differently. You’ll learn about a system that provides meaningful support for faculty while giving school leaders a realistic and effective process—one that teachers actually appreciate.

Session 2: Building a Framework for Faculty Growth

Teacher growth is essential for thriving school communities, but it doesn’t happen by accident. This session makes the case for implementing a clearly defined Faculty Growth Framework in independent schools. We’ll walk through how to develop one, what it should include, and how to ensure it takes root as a valued part of your school culture.

Session 3: Coaching that Cultivates Growth

Coaching is one of the most powerful tools for faculty development—but only when it’s done with clarity and purpose. This session explores how to build a coaching system that supports ongoing reflection and professional growth. We’ll distinguish between instructional coaching and growth coaching, and offer practical steps for launching a program that works at any school, no matter the size or structure.

Michael "Mike" Gwaltney brings over 30 years of leadership and teaching experience in private-independent schools, from classroom teacher to academic and administrative roles. He currently serves as Head of School at Bellevue Children’s Academy, where he leads a community committed to inquiry-based, student-centered learning. Prior to joining BCA, Mike spent 5 years as an ISM Consultant and served as Head of ISM’s Academic Leadership Consulting department. Mike co-authored ISM’s framework for Faculty Evaluation & Growth, helping schools implement systems that align evaluation with mission and support continuous faculty development. Mike is a seasoned workshop facilitator and coach, having led scores of regional and national sessions on school culture, leadership, curriculum design, faculty development, strategic planning, and innovation. 

Mike's leadership philosophy centers on ethics, integrity, authenticity, and shared responsibility. He believes in building supportive, mission-aligned cultures where faculty feel empowered to grow and excel. These convictions are core to the evaluation and growth systems he advocates and helps implement.