Monday, November 23, 2009

Teacher tenure a thorny issue, but some say it improves teaching - DailyBulletin.com


Teacher tenure a thorny issue, but some say it improves teaching - DailyBulletin.com:

"A recent report card on California's ability to fire poorly performing teachers won't end up on anyone's refrigerator.

A report by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Center for American Progress, 'Leaders and Laggards,' examined the 50 states in eight categories, including school management, finance, technology and staffing.

California acquired a passing mark in many categories, but was given a F when it comes to firing poorly performing teachers.

According to the report, more than 85 percent of principals polled said that tenures are a barrier to removal of ineffective teachers.

'It's not a good thing for the students,' said James Kidwell, deputy superintendent of human resources for the Ontario/Montclair School District. 'It impacts the quality of their education. Students deserve high-quality teachers.'

Without the ability to fire ineffective teachers, school leaders cannot build a cohesive school culture, create an environment of accountability, and ensure that all students will learn, the report stated."