Because effective teaching and school leadership are essential to improving student learning; and

Because research shows that teacher quality is the most critical school factor in determining the academic success of children; and

Because the leadership that school principals provide is directly related to both teacher and student performance; and

Because our community depends on a highly effective school system:

The Austin Independent School District has launched a Strategic Compensation Initiative aimed at Raising student achievement by Recruiting, Retaining, and Recognizing outstanding classroom teachers and principals. Through this initiative, AISD will explore how new and enhanced forms of compensation and organizational support can:

• Improve student learning at all schools and for all students, and eliminate the achievement gap;

• Recruit well-qualified teachers and principals to all AISD schools;

• Increase retention rates among AISD teachers and principals;

• Strengthen the knowledge and skills of staff.