I have been reading about the Washington D.C teacher contract negotiation for a a bit. It took 2.5 years to negotiate.
While I don't understand all the nuances, a few things jump out at me:
- A teacher's seniority will not be a determining factor in job retention, rather job performance will be the deciding factor. The perfomance evaluation is based on multiple variables one of them is improvement in student test scores.
- Teachers will get pay raise of 21.6 percent over five years that will increase average annual salary from $67,000 to $81,000. I think this is retroactive.
- Union members approved this contract by 1,412-425–almost 1,000 vote margin.
- The contract invests in professional development for teachers and provides mentoring for new teachers.
As a parent, I feel happy that a teacher that makes a difference in my child's life will be rewarded. On the other hand, this changes the system, even though by a little, it changes the system. People in general don't like changes. What are your thoughts? Do you think your state could benefit from a change?
I really love the idea of professional development for teachers and I am not even one. It is so helpful to have someone to talk to and bounce ideas off of. Together, we are stronger.
Some other questions:
- Do you think the above could become a model for other states?
- Do you think it hurts or helps the teachers?
- Do you think the students will benefit?
Related posts:
Yes, you are right. Parents and teachers can join forces to make sure that our kids don’t lose out.
I think the DC system has other variables as well. I will dig deeper and update the post with more information on what will be used. What you propose is fair, just, and provides a complete picture. ~ Aparna
I hope it doesn’t become a model that “test scores” are the factor to determine the success of a student let alone a teacher. I’m of course assuming that the tests referred to will be the usual multiple choice and/or standardized tests.
Hi Max:
I agree. I am very curious to know the other factors that will be used. I will dig deeper and update this article when I have more information. Thanks for stopping by. ~ Aparna
I do think teachers performance should be based on various factors, much like a portfolio. And, while I do not agree with the current testing situation, should testing be used, it should be a portion of that portfolio. However, experience, advanced degrees, and performance in other aspects must be weighted appropriately.
In Florida, ed reformers attempted a Senate Bill 6 which based a teachers contract from year to year on their test scores. No longer would teachers years of experience, advanced degrees, or Masters Certification be considered. Teachers, parents, districts, students, and unions stood up in opposition. Protests, walkouts, Facebook town halls with 50 thousand members all joining together. We yelled Veto and our Governor listened. It works if we join together and watch each piece of legislation closely. Here is my blog describing Teachers Empowered in Florida 2010 – Facebook – The Virtual Town Hall has Spoken:
http://gatorbonbc.wordpress.com/2010/06/09/oprah-the-virtual-town-hall-has-spoken-teachers-empowered-2010/
Doesn’t it occupy lots of time to keep your blog so exciting ?
Hi there!
Thanks for stopping by. We are passionate about education and things you love doing don’t seem to take up time. Enjoy the blog.
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