Kerry Calls for Higher Teacher Standards

[Freddie Stubbs]

ASSOCIATED PRESS

COLTON, Calif. (AP) - Democrat John Kerry says if elected president he would hold America's teachers to higher standards and give them higher salaries as a reward.

On the final stop of his three-day education tour Thursday, Kerry is calling for tougher teacher testing and financial rewards up to $5,000 for teachers and up to $100,000 for schools who boost student achievement or make other improvements.

"Its time for a new bargain with America's teachers and children - I will offer teachers more, and I will ask for more in return," Kerry said in a campaign statement.

Kerry's goal is to recruit or retain 500,000 teachers during his first term in the White House. He would give a minimum bonus of $5,000 for teachers who choose to work in high-need schools and subjects like math and science. He also would give college students who commit to teaching in those areas help paying their tuition.

more: http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/bw-elect/2004/may/06/050607130.html