Introducing the SALMON Framework

Seabird Assessment for Learning, Mentorship & Ongoing Nurturing

This site shares the development journey of SALMON—a community-informed teacher evaluation model created in collaboration with the Stó:lō Education Committee. Grounded in relational accountability, this process reflects Indigenous values, stakeholder voices, and local knowledge.

Explore the Process View the SALMON Tool

Explore the Four Stages of the SALMON Model

SPAWNING
FRY
SMOLT
RETURNING ADULT
Forming the Community Committee

We began by forming a community advisory group, including the Stó:lō Education Committee, to guide the entire process. Their leadership grounded the project in local values, priorities, and relational accountability.

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Environmental Scan

With guidance from the committee, we conducted a targeted review of local documents—policies, evaluation tools, websites, and strategic plans—to understand current practices and surface key themes.

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Community Interviews & Focus Groups

Using findings from the scan, we developed culturally grounded interview guides and prompts. We then held interviews and focus groups with over 20 educators and staff to understand what matters in a meaningful evaluation process.

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Co-Creation of the SALMON Tool

Insights from the community were synthesized into a strengths-based framework for teacher evaluation. This tool was built in close collaboration with those who contributed to its vision.

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Review & Community Validation

Drafts of the SALMON tool were shared with the original contributors for feedback. Their responses led to revisions that ensured cultural fit, clarity, and long-term usefulness in the local school context.

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Capacity Building & Implementation

We delivered the tool alongside hands-on guidance for school leaders and staff. This included training sessions to support meaningful implementation and ensure confidence in using the SALMON framework.

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Where SALMON Spawned: Rooted at Seabird Island Community School