Maintaining High Quality Education: A Study on Performance Pay
Start Date
April 2025
Location
2nd floor - Library
Abstract
While the U.S. graduation rate appears to be less of a concern today than it was in the latter half of the 20th century, a significant number of adults still do not complete high school. The implications of this have varied over time, generally having a negative impact on the workforce. In recent years, there has been growing attention on the role of teachers in schools and classrooms. Many of the most dedicated teachers—those who work hard to ensure their students graduate—often work in better-funded schools with greater access to resources. One strategy states use to address this disparity is to retain high-performing teachers by offering performance-based pay. This study explores whether performance pay policies are effective in raising graduation rates in the states where they are implemented. Using data on state graduation rates, performance pay policies, and teacher morale, I examine how such policies influence teacher behavior and, ultimately, student outcomes.
Maintaining High Quality Education: A Study on Performance Pay
2nd floor - Library
While the U.S. graduation rate appears to be less of a concern today than it was in the latter half of the 20th century, a significant number of adults still do not complete high school. The implications of this have varied over time, generally having a negative impact on the workforce. In recent years, there has been growing attention on the role of teachers in schools and classrooms. Many of the most dedicated teachers—those who work hard to ensure their students graduate—often work in better-funded schools with greater access to resources. One strategy states use to address this disparity is to retain high-performing teachers by offering performance-based pay. This study explores whether performance pay policies are effective in raising graduation rates in the states where they are implemented. Using data on state graduation rates, performance pay policies, and teacher morale, I examine how such policies influence teacher behavior and, ultimately, student outcomes.
