Michigan Lawmakers Debate Linking Teachers’ Paychecks to Performance

Michigan teachers' performance would play a much bigger role in determining pay under a proposal currently being considered by the Republican-controlled state House. The bill would render meaningless some advanced degrees and the number of years on the job.

House bill 4625 would mandate that teachers would be graded solely on test scores and student growth data. Teachers would only be eligible for pay increases for advanced degrees if they are for the subjects they teach.

Supporters say moving away from a seniority system will reward better teachers, and benefit students.

Those against the move argue that it will limit idea sharing between teachers, and put the focus on competing for higher salaries. Educators in financially-depressed areas would suffer because of outside factors which are beyond teachers' control.

If passed, the proposed law would only impact teachers hired after the bill takes effect.

- George McIntyre
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