INFORMEDdebate
YES
from members:
Gary Schlaack
Reed City, MI
The senior teacher has
been exposed to many
different educational
theories and applica-
tions [and] provides
leadership to schools.
SHOULD TEACHER
LAYOFFS BE BASED
ON SENIORITY?
Dana Osborne
Mount Pleasant, TN
With experience
comes wisdom and
knowing how to work
with each child’s
needs.
James Belligiese
Breezy Point, NY
A mix of seniority
with performance
would work best to
help ensure the most
fit and experienced
teachers remain.
MEDIA BAKERY
NO
EARLIER THIS YEAR, the New York State Senate passed a bill that
would end the use of seniority as the sole factor for deciding which
teachers are laid off. Similar measures are being considered elsewhere in the country.
Supporters of this move insist that relying on seniority alone can
eliminate young and effective teachers and protect ineffective
teachers. They say teachers should be judged, and retained, solely
on their performance, and seniority doesn’t necessarily guarantee
good performance.
Critics argue that experience is key in every trade and profession. They note that experienced teachers guide newer ones and
are in a better position to spot and address problems, and that
using seniority as the criterion protects against influences such
as favoritism or financial need.
What do you think?
from members:
Destiney Smith
Vacaville, CA
I would want teachers that most want to
be there, engage the
best with the children,
and add to the overall
atmosphere of the school.
Chris Toadvine
Altamonte Springs, FL
Exempting any group
just because of their
time on the job does
not encourage contin-
ued excellence. Kids
deserve the best we can give.
Find out more about this topic on the Web:
•
http://takingnote.learningmatters.tv/?p=4348)
•
www.anurbanteacherseducation.com/2011/04/teacher-defends-
seniority-rights.html
•
www.npr.org (search “teacher seniority”)
•
http://mayor2011.catalyst-chicago.org/question/should-seniority-govern-
teacher-layoffs
Cindy S. May
Atlanta, GA
Our children need to
have a teacher who
does the best job.
It should be based
solely on their ability.
16 The Costco Connection AUGUST 2011