Districts statewide developing plans based on educator performance

Across the state, school districts are developing their own unique plans to distribute legislative funding based on how well educators are doing their jobs.

Many of the performance-based compensation plans are a mix of elements, such as test data and teacher assessments.

Some districts have plans that emphasize teamwork and collaboration.

"We want to give teachers a carrot, to pull them together — not apart," said Robert Proffit, Washington School District professional development coordinator.

The Legislature earmarked $20 million in one-time funding for the compensation plans. The money will be doled out to districts based on enrollment.

The districts must have their plans to the state Board of Education by July 1. Many districts are frustrated with the short time allotted but say they wouldn't want to pass up the funding opportunity.

Jordan and Granite school boards approved their plans Tuesday night.

Granite District's plan is two-fold. First, participating teachers must create goals for themselves and their students. Money will be distributed based on achievement of these goals. Second, a school that had high participation in the goal-setting then sets three goals for itself. This can be a mix of elements, such as improving attendance, test scores and grade point average.

Jordan District's plan is comprised of 30 percent performance evaluations; 30 percent U-PASS test scores; and 40 percent Indicators of School Quality. ISQ is a survey system the district implemented last spring. Schools are rated on categories such as parent support, teacher excellence and instructional quality.

Weber and Alpine school districts are continuing to work on their plans.

Weber District's plan will be site-based and is being developed by individual schools and specific Weber district departments.

Assessments may focus on both academic and nonacademic measures. Incentives will be based on achieving or exceeding goals related to the individual school performance or district department plans. Evaluation of performance can be measured based on learning tools and instructional quality, but can also include parent, student and faculty surveys. Distinguished practices, knowledge, skill levels, student growth and advanced training also will be considered.

At Weber District, the funds will be awarded based on entire groups achieving or exceeding the goals which they have established. If performance levels aren't reached, the entire school or district department won't be eligible.