This publication contains two essays discussing the Teacher Advancement Program (TAP) and a criticism of merit pay for teachers. Today's schools are larger, often overcrowded, and frequently staffed by temporary or inexperienced teachers. TAP was created in response to the need for teacher-quality reform. It addresses challenges of teacher quality and administrator preparation by changing the structure of the teaching profession within schools. It is based on five principles: (1) multiple career paths; (2) market-driven compensation; (3) performance-based accountability; (4) ongoing and applied professional growth; and (5) expanding the supply of high-quality teachers. TAP is currently being implemented in nearly 30 schools in various states. Preliminary data show that there is an increased demand among top teachers to work in TAP schools. The second essay, "Why Merit Pay for Teachers Doesn't Work" (Al Ramirez), offers the viewpoint that such a salary schedule does not work because problems exist with regard to input, measurement, target, administration, morale, and money. It can undermine the sense of community in a school and reduce teachers' sense of efficacy by manipulating them into adopting patterns of behavior developed by others. (RT)