Teacher evaluation remains a controversial and disruptive area. The problems arise from the way evaluations are carried out. In many cases the evaluation system used is the problem. This book discusses teacher evaluation by providing characteristics separating effective and less effective systems. It presents eight commonalities identified in effective evaluation programs. In building a system, three characteristics are desirable: an appropriate attitude toward evaluation, an evaluation model complementary to the desired purpose, and separation of administrative and supervisory behavior. Also, an effective system should (1) set goals (presented are three approaches: management by objectives, performance objectives, and practical goal setting), (2) focus narrowly on teaching, (3) improve classroom observation skills, and (4) use additional sources of data (peer evaluation, student performance, parent evaluation, student evaluation, and self evaluation are discussed). After building an evaluation system, a training program should be designed that addresses the skills needed. Recommended training focuses on the teaching-learning process and on the enhancement of teacher-supervisor relationships. Included is an appendix giving an example of an evaluation system reflecting the commonalities of successful systems. (MD)