4. Categories. The annual evaluation system shall consist of multiple measures in two categories: student performance and teacher observations. a. Student performance category. Such category shall have at least one subcomponent and an optional second subcomponent as follows:

1. (1) For the first subcomponent, a teacher shall have a student learning objective (SLO) consistent with a goal-setting process determined or developed by the commissioner, that results in a student growth score; provided that, for any teacher whose course ends in a state-created or administered assessment, such assessment may be used as the underlying assessment for such SLO;
2. (2) For the optional second subcomponent, a district may locally select a second measure in accordance with this subparagraph. Such second measure shall apply in a consistent manner, to the extent practicable, across the district and be either: (A) based on a state-created or administered test, or (B) based on a state-designed supplemental assessment. The optional second subcomponent shall provide options for multiple assessment measures that are aligned to existing classroom and school best practices and take into consideration the recommendations in the testing reduction report as required by section one of subpart F of part EE of chapter fifty-six of the laws of two thousand fifteen which added this section regarding the reduction of unnecessary additional testing. The commissioner shall determine the weights and scoring ranges for the subcomponent or subcomponents of the student performance category that shall result in a combined category rating. The commissioner shall also set parameters for appropriate targets for student growth for both subcomponents, and the department must affirmatively approve and shall have the authority to disapprove or require modifications of district plans that do not set appropriate growth targets, including after initial approval. The commissioner shall set such weights and parameters consistent with the terms contained herein. b. Teacher observations category. The observations category for teachers shall be based on a state-approved rubric and shall include up to three subcomponents. Such category must include: (1) a subcomponent based on classroom observations conducted by a principal or other trained administrator and must also include (2) a subcomponent based on classroom observations by an impartial independent trained evaluator or evaluators selected by the district. An independent trained evaluator may be employed within the school district, but not the same school building, as the teacher being evaluated. Such category may also include a subcomponent based on classroom observations conducted by a trained peer teacher rated effective or highly effective from the same school or from another school in the district. The commissioner shall determine the weights, and/or weighting options and scoring ranges for the subcomponents of the observations category that result in a combined category rating. The commissioner shall also determine the minimum number of observations to be conducted annually, including frequency and duration, and any parameters therefor. The commissioner shall set such weights and scores consistent with the terms contained herein.