For all those interested in datasets/statistical analysis, it is worth your while to watch this video:
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/08/how-the-times-...
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2010/08/how-the-times-...
I have a feeling that every single principal and teacher who is worth a damn in America would disagree with him.
I also feel like the LA Times spending tons of money chasing a story that has what they essentially admitted to being a limited slice of information regarding teacher efficacy wouldn't happen if the LA Times was doing well financially. I assume they're scrambling to stay alive just like all other newspapers. . .