What does the Value Added Model measure?

The Value Added Model specifically measures the contribution of teachers to student test scores over time. This approach assesses how much value a teacher adds to their students' academic performance, as determined by standardized test scores, while controlling for factors such as prior achievement and student demographics. By focusing on the changes in test scores over time, the model provides a more nuanced understanding of a teacher’s effectiveness and impact on student learning compared to static metrics, such as total test scores or graduation rates. This methodology aims to highlight the educational productivity of teachers and can inform decisions related to performance evaluations and professional development.