Teachers for CEO Merit Pay

March 21, 8:55 AMNY Education ExaminerLorri Giovinco-Harte

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A friend sent me a link to the website "Teachers for CEO Merit Pay," a site that blends ironic humor with the stark reality of the unbridled greed and corruption that is marking financial institutions. 

Aside from providing  humor on a subject that is incredibly depressing, the authors provide factual information about the players who have brought our economy to a standstill:

Pop quiz:

Chief Executive Officers, take out your #2 pencils and mark the letter that corresponds to the single best answer choice (remember, unlike on Wall St. your scores will be invalidated if you are caught cheating).

1) What have CEOs achieved in recent years that would warrant lavish salaries and bonuses?

1. A Global economic collapse that has led to millions losing their jobs, homes, and pensions.
2. Two wars in the Middle East that have seen bountiful contracts awarded to private companies.
3. 47 million Americans now without health insurance.
4. The systematic under-funding of schools and the push toward privatizing education through charter schools.
5. None of the above.

If you selected “E,” congratulations! You are a rare official who has made the honor roll of the newly formed institute, Teachers for CEO Merit Pay: “Because sabotaging the global economy shouldn’t earn you a bonus.”

Today’s executives are increasingly flunking this basic test, falling behind the curve and, because of low standards, getting shuffled through the system believing they have earned the $18 billion in bonuses that were awarded to Wall Street last year (you can now view their report card at www.teachersforceomeritpay.com).

The authors make interesting commentary about the community who has shown an unbelievable lack of accountability to the people of the United States - the same community who is demanding accountability from school teachers:

The need for a rigid merit pay system with strict accountability for CEOs stems from the nature of their position, which leads them to dedicate their lives to shortsighted goals focused on enriching themselves—regardless of the impact on the broader society.

But many officials—attempting to divert attention from those truly responsible for the decline of our society—are suggesting that it is teachers who need to be held accountable for the erosion of our culture with stringent pay-for-performance requirements.

You can read more at Teachers for CEO Merit Pay.