The Comprehensive Education Reform Act of 1984 (CERA) provides the mandate and framework for the Tennessee Career Ladder Program for teachers and administrators. The development and structure of the Tennessee Career Ladder Plan for teachers, a five level program which provides for teacher certification based upon performance, is discussed in this report. The levels include probationary, apprentice, I, II, and III. The levels are explained, and qualifications for each are discussed. The CERA provides for local evaluation of teachers at the probationary and apprentice levels and Career Level I. State evaluation is mandated for Career Levels II and III using the Tennessee Career Ladder Evaluation System. Multiple data sources are used for the evaluation, including classroom observation, teacher developed portfolios, interviews, questionnaires, and written tests. The program is designed to attract, retain, and reward excellent teachers. A successful performance evaluation permits teachers to advance on the Career Ladder, which provides monetary incentives and professional growth opportunities. An outline of competencies and indicators with measurement statements is appended. (DWH)