Teacher Merit Pay Bill on the Agenda in Tallahassee

BRADENTON – Though former Governor Charlie Crist was able to nix merit pay legislation the last time around, Rick Scott has made it clear that he is very open to the concept. Even if he weren't, state Republicans could use their veto-proof majority to ram it through. Therefore, it was no real surprise when a recently proposed Senate bill moved at lightning speed through committee or that it is ready to hit the floor on the second day of this week's session.

The bill, SB 6, drew protests from Florida teachers, but seems to have a very good chance of passing, especially in light of Republicans' strong gains in both legislative chambers last November. One of the major components of the bill that is being objected to is that it would make FCAT scores 50 percent of the teacher's evaluation. It would also prevent advanced degrees from being a factor in their pay if they were not in the area of their certification.