A Guide For Policymakers 2016 - 17 | Page 48

degree or certificate at a community college, Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), or other eligible institution. The maximum scholarship amount is the average cost of tuition and mandatory fees at a Tennessee public community college. The scholarship for each student will vary based on their remaining financial need after all other grant aid is applied. Students who graduated from high school in 2015 were the first class eligible for the program. 
 Tennessee Educator Acceleration Model (TEAM): TEAM is the state-developed teacher evaluation system implemented in the 2011-12 school year. TEAM combines quantitative and qualitative components, and the model focuses on 23 specific indicators developed from research-based standards. TEAM incorporates frequent observation, constructive feedback, student learning measures, and aligned development opportunities. TEAM is being used by 121 districts, covering approximately 80 percent of teachers statewide. Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS): TVAAS aims to measure the impact a district, school, or teacher has on the academic growth of individual students and groups of students from one school year to the next. TVAAS scores are based on student performance on Tennessee’s achievement tests. Tenure: Tenure is a status where employees are hired on a permanent basis without periodic contract renewals. Tennessee law was changed in 2011 to enable districts to grant tenure to teachers after a five-year probationary period if teachers have demonstrated a certain level of effectiveness, based, in part, on student achievement. Work-Based Learning (WBL): Work-based learning (WBL) is one method for students to develop skills necessary for postsecondary education and future careers. WBL combines academic, technical, and social skills through collaborative activities with industry to allow students to explore possible career options. Introductory WLB activities in the elementary and middle school years may include school-directed experiences that expose students to a broad range of industries and career opportunities such as field trips and tours, career fairs, and guest speakers from various career and industry fields. More advanced activities in high school may include a more comprehensive experience both inside and outside of the classroom through job shadowing, service learning projects, and practicum experiences for credit. 47 | P U B L I C E D U C AT I O N I N T E N N ES S E E