Update on Merit Pay in Denver

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DENVER -- The Denver Public Schools' pay-for-performance plan to motivate teachers was hailed as a model for the rest of the country when it took effect three years ago. It now stands on the verge of collapse after months of contract negotiations have stalemated.

Why Teachers Quit
The top reasons teachers cited for leaving the profession in 2001

• Lack of time to prepare 60%
• Too heavy a teaching load 51%
• Class sizes too large 50%
• Poor salary or benefits 48%
• Student behavioral problems 44%
• Lack of influence in school 42%

Source: National Center for Education Statistics
-Time Magazine February 25, 2008