DC Public Schools is creating a “career ladder” that will enable teachers to earn year-to-year salary increases upward of $24,000, while providing teachers with more leadership opportunities within the school system.

The idea behind the Leadership Initiative for Teachers is to retain more high-quality teachers who would otherwise look to administrative positions to advance their careers. Based on evaluations, teachers are sorted into five categories, earning higher salaries and the right to fewer professional observations as they advance through the rungs.