To parents and those uninformed by the ISTARS program: I have been teaching now for 30 years and find many problems with the program Tom Luna is trying to push through the Legislature and Senate.
First of all, teaching is a profession that no one would characterize as lavish. The "We Teach" program supports progressive pay and protects employment continuity and due process. While ISTARS may contain provisions for employment review under the Category 4 contract, this system cannot be referred to as "due process." The Supreme Court clearly defines due process—ISTARS does not meet that criteria. Of all the progressive compensation plans currently being used nationally, not one has eliminated employees' due process: ISTARS would be the first and only, (that would be a big mistake) should other regional states offer more attractive employment packages, Idaho could lose its top quality teachers since, once relocated, quality teachers are less likely to return to Idaho. In particular, rural areas and state border regions may be affected by a "brain drain." Placing caps on the number or percentage of teachers eligible for additional compensation pits teacher vs. teacher: Ultimately, students suffer. Making teaching in Idaho an attractive profession ensures better recruitment and retention of top talent. Better teachers ensure Idaho's youth received a better education. Better schools attract corporate interest and stimulates investment in Idaho's economy. Standardized testing leaves too many gaps in the measurement process. Gaps: Are we measuring intelligence and practical ability, or are we simply measuring test-taking ability? Rather than providing the opportunity for students to demonstrate a higher level of reasoning ability, or carry out any form of extended analysis, standardized tests stress a more superficial level of reasoning, and are most typically extensive exercises in short term memory. Students and teachers in poor scoring districts will be punished in spite of relative efforts. Emphasis on testing promotes less creativity in educational standards and practices. Integrating learning material for tests means other materials receive less emphasis. All in all, Idaho should not apply a fundamentally flawed measurement system to a teacher's livelihood.
Teaching is a calling, a vocation of passion and one of the most rewarding professions imaginable. I believe it is in our and the states' best interest to work together to ensure we implement the best plan for Idaho's children. ISTARS is not that program. I urge all parents concerned about quality education to call their legislators and demand they oppose the Luna plan.
I, for one, would not have come to Idaho to work for the students' academic education without "due process" in place.
Catherine Lowden
Carey
