Press Release

T.J. High School Faculty Joins Pay For Performance Pilot

March 12, 2001

The staff of Thomas Jefferson High School voted last week to join the district's pay for performance pilot.

The decision comes on the heels of a similar vote by the faculty at Manual High School two weeks ago.

As a result, two high schools, one middle school, and 12 elementary schools are now involved in the pay for performance pilot, providing the wide variety of teacher experiences needed in order to conduct a successful test of the teacher pay concepts.

"We now have a broad range of academic programs and diverse collection of schools in the pilot and the teachers involved will stretch and test the pay for performance idea to the maximum level," said Design Team member Brad Jupp. The Design Team is the group of teachers and administrators overseeing the implementation of the pilot. "The Thomas Jefferson vote guarantees a thorough evaluation of this idea," added Jupp.

Thomas Jefferson Principal Ann Bailey applauded the staff for its willingness to play a role in the district's ongoing experiment.

"We have an energetic group of teachers who are willing to look at creative ideas to improve student achievement," said Bailey. "I know our staff's experience with this idea will prove valuable."

Teachers in pilot schools are working with their principals on an annual basis to develop two performance objectives for the school year. Pay increases are then provided in a lump sum upon the completion of the objectives.

Three approaches are being tested, including:

1. Objectives based on Iowa Tests of Basic Skills or other district approved standardized tests.
   
2. Objectives based on criterion referenced (teacher developed) tests.
   
3. Objectives based on increased teacher knowledge and skills.

In March of 2000 the Board of Education approved the idea of extending the pilot through the 2002-2003 school year. Final approval of the plan being developed by the Design Team - two administrators and two teachers - is scheduled before December, 2003.

For further information, please contact Brad Jupp 720-423-3629) or Thomas Jefferson High School Principal Ann Bailey (303-691-7000).