Arlington County Public Schools is looking at a plan that would bump teachers’ salaries if they are willing to undergo a series of classes and tests to evaluate their skills and knowledge.
The pilot program would require the teachers to use their own time to undergo a national certification program, and in return for successful completion, teachers would jump one pay step. That would mean at least an extra $2,000 in teachers’ pockets annually, according to system pay scales.
The program could cost the school system up to $319,000 for the remainder of the 2005-06 school year and the 2006-07 term. The cost includes stipends, course materials, clerical assistance, supplies, printing and training, said Mark Macekura, special projects coordinator for Arlington Public Schools.
“The idea is to encourage them not to just come into work and teach, which can be difficult enough, but to find new and different ways to teach,” said Linda Erdos, a spokeswoman for the school system.
The program is expected to be completed and evaluated this winter with a full report on its effectiveness due out in the spring of 2007.
The School Board is set to vote on implementing the program at an April 20 meeting.
