Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Merit pay getting traction?

Are the unions finally coming around to the idea of merit pay? 

The state’s two largest teachers unions did something few expected with Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s plug for merit pay — they didn’t dismiss it.

Leaders with the Illinois Education Association and the Illinois Federation of Teachers — which together represent more than 210,000 educators — say they could support tying pay to classroom performance … if pay is not tied to test scores alone;

… if local teachers have a hand in designing the salary deal;

… and if it doesn’t shortchange teachers in schools dogged by poverty, high drop-out rates or violence.

“We’re not opposed to exploring this if it’s done in a way we believe gives our people a voice in the process,” Illinois Education Association President Ken Swanson said.

Here’s hoping.