There have been research studies recently that suggest the quality of the teacher is more important than resources such as smartboards, computers, and internet access. These reports even mention teacher quality takes precedence, over the leaders of the school. It’s not difficult to agree with these studies because teachers have more direct interaction with students and they are the end product.

The question that must be answered is, “How do school systems attract the best teachers?” Although the obvious answer to this question is to pay teachers more, school districts nationwide continue to struggle with this issue.

There is however a New York City charter school scheduled to open in 2009 plans to pay teachers $125,000, plus a potential bonus based on schoolwide performance. This type of compensation is nearly twice the amount average New York City public school teachers earn and roughly more than two times the national average teacher pay.

The founder of the school is Zeke Vanderhoek, a 31 year old Yale graduate who spent three teaching in Washington Heights. He later started a successful tutoring company where he paid tutors $100 per hour, which was much more than the average tutor earns. Now, he’s taking the same concept to local schools.

There is a catch to this $125,000 salary. Teachers will be required to take on additional responsibilities such as discipline, work longer days, and possibly teach 30 students in a class. To qualify for this job, you must score in the 90^th percentile of the GRE or GMAT and complete a live teaching audition.

You can get more information by going directly to the school’s website at http://www.tepcharter.org/

Do you think this school is on the right track?