Test Scores and Teacher Pay

In some states it has been suggested that teachers should receive their salary and pay based on the outcome of their student’s test scores. UEA and its members resist this approach for several reasons. First, it’s not a level playing field. Each class is composed of different students. Some years some classes have more students who are randomly placed together that are above grade level. In other years, the teacher’s class may have more students below grade level. Some years there are more students needing special education and resource help. To compare the classes with each other and reward teacher pay on test scores would be basically unfair because students are placed in a classroom by “luck of the draw.”

Individual Focus

There is undue focus on group test scores. The standardized tests and CRT tests that are given are tests that are designed to measure groups and compare groups throughout the nation. These tests are not designed to measure individual student growth. In a classroom the teacher’s focus is on the individual growth of each student, which may not be reflected on the overall group test. Teachers prefer alternative ways to know that students are growing such as observation and participation, projects and presentations. Once again, there are alternative ways to assess that are valid and reliable, and don’t focus on test scores.

Our product in public education is human beings, not “widgets.” There are many factors that effect student learning. Many students are validated in school through participation in art, music and athletics. Teachers want to meet the unique needs for motivation and learning for all students. Focusing solely on group test scores for rewards and sanctions is in our opinion a narrow, short sited approach.