Legislative audit reveals hurdles for new teacher merit program

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the findings of an initial review concerning merit awards for teachers, stemming from Senate Bill 173, which aims to implement market-informed compensation for educators in Utah. The review, presented by auditors from the Office of the Auditor General, highlighted key aspects of the new program, which is set to be a five-year pilot initiative allowing local education agencies (LEAs) to develop their own plans for identifying top-performing teachers.

Darren Underwood, Deputy Auditor General, and his team emphasized that the program is voluntary for LEAs and requires plans to incorporate student growth metrics, parent surveys, and teacher evaluations. The top 25% of teachers based on performance will receive stipends as part of the initiative.

However, the auditors identified several potential hurdles to the program's implementation. Variability in teacher evaluation systems across LEAs complicates the comparison of teacher performance statewide. Additionally, the lack of statewide data on parent surveys and teacher evaluations could hinder effective assessments. Financial constraints and the timing of funding may also impact LEA participation, alongside the need for improved measures of student growth to ensure fair evaluations, particularly for teachers working with students facing greater challenges.

The auditors made several recommendations aimed at addressing these challenges, including prioritizing an audit of LEA participation and funding influences, as well as validating alternative growth measures to enhance the program's effectiveness. The findings and recommendations are expected to guide the Center for Schools of the Future as they work towards refining the merit award program and ensuring accountability moving forward.