School systems argue merits of ‘bonuses’ tied to test scores

Business executives often get year-end bonuses if their employees meet certain goals. Coaches earn more when their players perform well. So why not reward teachers based on their students’ test scores?

A growing number of school systems are doing just that.

In the past year, Minnesota, Florida, Texas and the cities of Houston and Denver have established merit pay programs that partly or completely tie bonuses to student achievement. Other states, including Ohio, Iowa and Mississippi, are considering similar programs.

By Ledyard King, Gannett News Service

Full Story: http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2006-03-20-teacher-bonuses_x.htm