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I'm a former middle school teacher, who worked very hard, and consistently went beyond the call in order to reach and motivate my students. However, I am completely opposed to this measure. Why completely do away with seniority? Teachers definitely get better with experience; I have never known it otherwise. Not even allowing seniority to be part of the salary decision makes no sense. Mainly, however, I worry because "merit" is so subjective. Who would decide? A principal who liked you? Or didn't? How could there be consistency statewide? The only way is even more standardized tests, ugh! I have two kids in public schools, and they already have too many tests.
If you really want to attract great teachers, first lower the class sizes! Then, allow and encourage creativity. This can be done better without this ballot measure.
Thank you,
Joy Marshall

posted 4 years, 8 months ago
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