TEACHER PERFORMANCE INCENTIVES – a 2006 study by the University of Florida concluded “teacher merit pay programs measurably improved student achievement as compared to teachers without merit pay programs.” While the findings in this and similar research is compelling, many traditional public schools resist merit performance incentives and the benefits they can bring to students. Many public school systems are unionized monopolies with little incentive to improve or change, much less innovate. We believe that merit based performance incentives will attract and focus top talent in the teaching profession and make a difference to students. The Clarion Council will help fund well-conceived teacher performance incentive programs and will encourage the replication of this best practice. This involves two major components:

1. Professional Practices Review – specific, excellent teacher practices have been identified using the research of Robert Marzano, “What Works in School.” (Based on 35 years of research)

2. Learning Gains of Students – a sophisticated methodology and supporting software is being developed to quantify learning gains and proficiency of every student in every grade in every subject area.

One of the biggest barriers to using teacher performance incentives has been the lack of objective criteria. The methodology that is being developed and tested provides objective metrics and supporting software that can be used in any K-12 system.

“I have been teaching since 1993, and cannot recall ever feeling appreciated for my work like when I received my incentive bonus. I do not like to put a monetary value to the quality of the work I do but... this bonus really makes me feel esteemed and respected. Thank you for rewarding me for my dedication and professionalism in what I love to do most - teach!”

- A Charter School Teacher