What is the Equivalency Review Process?
The Wisconsin Educator Effectiveness System is a performance-based evaluation system designed to improve the education of all students in the state of Wisconsin by supporting guided, individualized, self-determined professional growth and development of educators.
The Wisconsin EE System is made up of two primary parts an educator practice portion and a student outcomes portion. The Wisconsin Educator Effectiveness System accommodates the use of alternative models of educator practice — teacher and principal — evaluation. School districts and independent charter schools may apply to use an alternative model of teacher and principal evaluation from the DPI model using the Equivalency Review Process.
The equivalency review process does not apply to the student performance portion of the Wisconsin Educator Effectiveness System (student/school learning objectives). The student performance portion of the system is the same for all models, regardless of equivalency review process approval status.
Who can apply?
Districts or 2r, 2x, and non-instrumentality charter schools, or consortia of districts and charter schools have the opportunity to apply to use models of teacher and principal practice evaluation alternative to those used in the state model of the EE System.
Note: Approval is granted to the applicant, not the model itself. Only the approved applicant(s) may use the alternative model, and only as described in the application.
Equivalency Application Process, Resources & Timeline
Interested parties must first determine their eligibility and submit a Letter of Intent to Apply for Equivalency to DPI by January 15, 2025.
Send letters of intent and application materials via email to Jacob.Hollnagel@dpi.wi.gov .
Letters may be addressed to:
WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION
ATTN: JACOB HOLLNAGEL
LICENSING, EDUCATOR ADVANCEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
PO BOX 7841
MADISON, WI 53707-7841
Timeline:
January 15, 2025 - Letter of Intent to Apply due to DPI
March 15, 2025 - Equivalency Applications due to DPI
April 15, 2025 - Initial Notice of Application Status given to Applicants
May 15, 2025 - Additional Evidence and Supporting Documentation due to DPI (if necessary)
June 15, 2025 - Final Notice of Application Status given to Applicants (if necessary)
Application Materials:
2024 Equivalency Application
Background Information:
Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter PI 47
Upon receipt of your letter of intent, DPI will reach out to set up a phone conference in advance of the application due date to discuss the Equivalency Review process, requirements, application, and resources and to answer any questions or concerns.
For more information or questions, contact Jacob Hollnagel at jacob.hollnagel@dpi.wi.gov or 608.266.5195.