(b) In a formative year, with the evaluator’s approval:

1. (1) The teacher shall focus on elements of the teacher’s professional growth plan that are designed to help the teacher improve his or her teaching practices; and

2. (2)

   1. (A) The teacher may:

(d) (d) A classroom; or

1. (ii) Conduct self-directed research related to the teacher’s professional growth plan.

   1. (B) The teacher shall continue to demonstrate a commitment to student learning by furthering the teacher’s professional growth and development as guided by the teacher’s professional growth plan; and

2. (3) The school district shall support teachers on an ongoing basis throughout a formative year by:

   1. (A) Providing teachers with timely feedback about the teacher’s teaching practices;
   2. (B) Engaging teachers in a collaborative, supportive learning process; and

   3. (C) Helping teachers use assessment methods supported by evidence-based research that:

      1. (i) Inform the teacher of student progress; and
      2. (ii) Provide a basis for adapting teaching practices.
      3. (c) The formative year support may be guided in whole or in part by an evaluator or by persons designated by the evaluator:
   4. (A) A lead teacher designated by an administrator;
   5. (B) An instructional facilitator;
   6. (C) A curriculum specialist; or

   7. (D) An academic coach.

      1. (d) This part does not require an overall rating during a formative year.

(e) While this part allows for other school personnel to guide support in formative years, the designated evaluator remains responsible for:

1. (1) Conducting summative evaluations of teachers; and
2. (2) Assigning the overall ratings.