Measures of Student Learning: Overview and Resources

Overview of Measures of Student Learning (MSLs)

As part of the statutory requirements for educator evaluation, a portion of the final effectiveness rating (FER) for all licensed personnel must consist of Measures of Student Learning (MSLs) or Measures of Student Outcomes (MSOs). MSLs are data points which directly measure educator impact on student learning. All teachers are required to have at least one individual measure (a measure attributed to the individual teacher) and one collective measure (a measure attributed to two or more teachers) compiled together to create their MSL score. Beginning in the 2023-24 school year, MSLs will comprise 30% of a teacher's total FER. 

Note that for the 2022-23 school year, the use of student growth from the Colorado Growth Model or district/school performance frameworks may not be used as a part of licensed personnel's Measure of Student Learning/Outcome (MSL/MSO). All other aspects of the system will remain the same. 

There is incredible flexibility afforded to districts/BOCES, schools, and/or educators with regard to the design of their MSLs. Districts/BOCES and/or schools are able to determine the number of measures attributed to educators (between a minimum of 2 and maximum of 5 measures) as well as the weight of those measures. Further, based on local values determined through stakeholder groups such as district/BOCES 1338 councils, there is complete flexibility in what measures are used and how success criteria is designed. 

Below, engage in two webinars which are intended to highlight the meaning behind MSLs and how meaningful measures can be determined. 

Webinar Part 1: Thinking Through District and School Measures

This recorded webinar is designed to be used with those involved in decision-making in your district/BOCES to determine the measures of student learning and student outcomes (MSLs/MSOs) for the educator evaluation system.  This may include and not be limited to district leaders, HR and EE staff, evaluators, and members of your Advisory Personnel Performance Evaluation Council (also known as 1338 Committee).  It is designed to be paused and lead to a discussion with your colleagues to ensure a thoughtful determination of your district measures for the 2022-23 school year.

Webinar Part 2: Deepening Understanding and Creating Success Criteria around MSLs and MSOs

This recorded webinar is intended to follow the values-based discussion and determination of MSL/MSOs from the Part 1 webinar. This webinar will deepen understanding around the options for setting success criteria for a variety of student learning measures, and provide opportunities for teams to practice several methods for setting success criteria at both the individual and collective levels. 

Examples of Measures of Student Learning (MSLs)

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