At a time when teacher quality has emerged as a key factor in student learning, a statistical technique that determines the "value added" that teachers bring to student achievement is getting new scrutiny. Value-added measures compare students' growth in achievement to their expected growth, based on prior achievement and demographic…

A review of leadership evaluations and accountability systems in hundreds of schools revealed seven keys to effective systems: balance between achievement and improvement, specific demands, focus on student performance, frequency, adaptation to individual strengths, rewards for tough choices, and reflection. No system can succeed if leaders lack…

A suburban Philadelphia district set aside $100,000 for merit-pay (bonuses) for individuals and groups of teachers. Although teachers are resistant, vowing to give to charity any bonuses linked to test scores, morale and scores have improved. Cincinnati and Castle Rock, Colorado, have workable plans. (MLH)