Peer Assistance and Review (PAR) Program

The PAR program is a cornerstone of the new evaluation process within the Professional Growth System. Initially proposed by MCEA, PAR represents a qualitative shift in how the school system supports and evaluates teachers. MCPS is one of only a handful of school districts nationally where master teachers share responsibility for ensuring that all teachers meet the school system’s high-performance standards. The PAR program is run by a joint panel of representatives from MCEA and from the principals’ association. PAR serves two groups of teachers:

• Novice teachers – first-year teachers with no prior teaching experience
• Experienced teachers who have received a below-standard evaluation from their principal
• For both groups, PAR provides intensive assistance to the teacher and is responsible for an independent assessment and recommendation for continued employment, continued assistance, non-renewal, or dismissal.

The Professional Growth System Handbook 2022 can be found here