D.C. teachers to receive merit pay

On October 2, D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle A. Rhee proposed a new contract that would reward good teachers and remove bad ones.  If approved, the novel contract would allow excellent teachers to earn up to $100,000 per year with bonuses.  Teachers who fail to reach even the minimum of standards would be removed, "regardless of tenure."

This refreshing proposal is a logical step in raising standards of D.C. Public Schools.  Like most working people in America, teachers should be held to high standards of accountability and responsibility.  In years past, public schools across the country have had difficulty attracting good people for teaching positions precisely because of the low pay and low expectations.

Rhee's proposal would attract professionals who are more qualified to teach and more importantly, those who have a sincere interest in educating our young people.  Children of low-income households in the District would most benefit from such a strategy, as these youngsters need involved, passionate teachers who not only desire results, but also wish to be rewarded for doing their jobs.

For more information, please visit the D.C. Public Schools website:  http://www.k12.dc.us/