A Vision for Boston:
Questions for the 2009 Mayoral Candidates

Day 3: The Next Teachers' Contract

What will your priorities be for the next teachers' contract and how will you achieve successful implementation given the tight fiscal position the City will face over the next few years?

Response from Mayor Menino:

Our approach to every teachers’ contract is to advocate for reforms that put students first.

Our priorities in these contracts include:

1) Appropriate Compensation

To attract the best and brightest, we offer our teachers the state’s most competitive compensation package; however, it is time to adopt alternative compensation models that reward teachers for improvements in student achievement. We can attract significant funding through Secretary Duncan’s "Race to the Top" initiative, but we won’t be considered if we don’t explore merit pay.

2) Teacher Support

We’re fortunate to have extremely dedicated teachers — veterans and new teachers, alike. We must provide them with the training, materials and support they need to succeed. The teachers’ contract should be designed to protect and promote the best teachers, and increase opportunities for teacher leadership.

3) Innovative School Models

We will keep advancing innovations that improve student learning and attract families to City schools. Our 24 pilot schools have earned national praise by advancing creative approaches that meet the needs of families. We must be particularly bold in our approach to transforming low-performing schools, giving them the flexibility to assemble a top-notch staff, extend learning time, and put resources where they are needed most.