Des Moines Public Schools, Iowa

National enrollment rank: 175

Labor context

Iowa requires collective bargaining by school districts if a majority of teachers vote for union representation.
Teachers are NEA union members.
2,400 teachers

Student demographics

34,355 students
70% free/reduced lunch

School district teacher count, enrollment, and demographic data is from the 2014-2015 school year sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics. Due to data issues, teacher count for districts in six states (HI, MT, NE, OH, UT, and WI) is from 2013-2014.

Fast facts

Days in student school year:	179
Additional teacher work days:	6.5
Annual adjustment (reported as a percentage of change from the previous year):	1.1% (based on the traditional salary schedule only)
Starting salary:	$40,160 (based on the traditional salary schedule only)
Maximum salary (salary, degree, years of experience):	$73,271; PhD; 20
Student achievement data required for evaluation:
Layoff criteria:
Evaluations per year:
Tenured	once every three years unless teacher opts for alternate contract in which case it is 1x/yr for teachers in years 4-8
Non-tenured	Once a year
Sick and personal days per year:	17 (15 sick; 2 personal)
Years to tenure:	3 years

Compensation - Fringe Benefits questions

Health and Wellness
What is the maximum portion of the employee's health insurance premium paid by the employer?	100% (if the employee fully participates in the District's wellness program) pp. 24 & 25, Art. XVII.B.
What is the maximum portion of the employee's dependents' health insurance premium paid by the employer?	100% (if the employee fully participates in the District's wellness program) pp. 24 & 25, Art. XVII.B.
Does the employer specify a dollar cap for the portion of the premium they cover? If so, what is the cap?	no, district states that the premium is fully covered if the employee participates in the District's wellness program If an employee does not participate in the wellness program, s/he is required to contribute $600 toward the health insurance premium. pp. 24 & 25, Art. XVII.B.
Pensions/Retirement
Are there incentives for a teacher to take early retirement?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents While there are no details, there is reference in the 2016-2018 Contract to a voluntary early retirement benefits plan, which may be approved annually (p. 32, Art. XXI).
By what date must a teacher give notification that he/she intends to resign or retire?	resignation: 30 days; retirement: issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents The teacher should not terminate a contract during the school year or in the last month prior to a school year except in emergency circumstances. Board Procedure 417: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/
Does the district offer an incentive to the teacher who notifies the district before the deadline that he/she intends to resign/retire at the end of the school year?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Is there a penalty for a teacher who fails to notify the district that he/she intends to resign/retire by the district's deadline?	Yes , the district can file a complaint with the state; advertising and other costs incurred by the district to secure a replacement may become the responsibility of the teacher Board Policy 417: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/
Can a teacher receive payment for unused sick leave at retirement? How much?	Other employees approved for early retirement effective in the 2003 school year and thereafter may receive payout for unused sick leave (no details given); all other employees: no p. 15, Art. XV.B.
Can a teacher receive payment for unused personal leave at retirement? How much?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Tuition Reimbursement
Is tuition reimbursement offered to teachers?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can a teacher receive financial support to cover National Board certification fees?	issue not addressed in the scope of NCTQ reviewed documents

Calendar questions

School Year
STUDENTS: How many days are students in school?	179 12th grade: 173 Past Policy 180 for grades K-11; 174 for grade 12 Past Policy grades K-11: 180; grade 12: 174 Past Policy 180 Past Policy 180 Past Policy 180 Past Policy 177 Past Policy 177 2010-2011 School Year Calendar Past Policy 178 2009-2010 School Year Calendar Past Policy 177 2008-2009 School Year Calendar
STUDENTS: How many hours, minimum, are students scheduled to be in school each year?	Elementary: 1,238-1,253 (total); middle: 1,238(total); secondary: 1,238-1253 (total) Elementary school hours were either 6 hours, 55 minutes a day, or 7 hours a day. Calculated based on a 6 hour, 55 minute day X 179 days = 1,238 hours, and 7 hours x 180 days = 1,253 hours. Middle school hours were 6 hours, 55 minutes a day; High Schools were 6 hours, 55 minutes or 7 hours. District website: http://www.dmschools.org/schools/school-hours-2/ Past Policy elementary: 1,245-1,260 (total); middle: 1,215-1,245 (total); secondary: 1,245 (total) Elementary school hours were either 6 hours, 45 minutes a day, or 7 hours a day. Calculated based on a 6 hour, 45 minute day X 180 days = 1,245 hours, and 7 hours x 180 days = 1,260 hours. Middle school hours were either 6 hours, 45 minutes a day, 6 hours, 50 minutes a day, or 6 hours, 55 minutes a day. High Schools were 6 hours, 55 minutes. Past Policy elementary: 1,215-1,260 (total); middle: 1,215-1,245 (total); secondary: 1,245 (total) Elementary school hours were either 6 hours, 45 minutes a day, or 7 hours a day. Calculated based on a 6 hour, 45 minute day X 180 days = 1,215 hours, and 7 hours x 180 days = 1,260 hours. Middle school hours were either 6 hours, 45 minutes a day, 6 hours, 50 minutes a day, or 6 hours, 55 minutes a day. High Schools were 6 hours, 55 minutes. Past Policy elementary: 1,215 (based on a 6 hour, 45 minute day X 180 days) (total); secondary: 1,245 (based on a 6 hour, 55 minute day X 180 days) (total) Past Policy elementary: 1,215 (based on a 6 hour, 45 minute day X 180 days); secondary: 1,245 (based on a 6 hour, 55 minute day X 180 days) Past Policy elementary: 1,215; secondary: 1,245 The elementary calculation is based on 180 days X 6 hours, 45 minutes. The secondary calculations is based on 180 days X 6 hours, 55 minutes. Past Policy 1,202 This calculation is based on 177 days X 6 hours, 45 minutes. Past Policy 1,202 This calculation is based on 177 days X 6 hours, 45 minutes. 2010-2011 School Year Calendar & District website Past Policy 1,202 This calculation is based on 177 days X 6 hours, 45 minutes. 2009-2010 School Calendar & District website Past Policy 1,195 This calculation is based on 177 days X 6 hours, 45 minutes. 2008-2009 School Calendar & District website
TEACHERS: How many days are teachers in school?	185 Past Policy 184 Past Policy 185 Past Policy 185 Past Policy 185 Past Policy 185 Past Policy 186 Past Policy 186 2010-2011 School Year Calendar Past Policy 186 2009-2010 School Year Calendar Past Policy 185 2008-2009 School Year Calendar
TEACHERS: How many days is the teacher required to be on-site without students? (including half or partial days)	6.5 Past Policy elementary: 4.5; secondary: 4 Past Policy elementary: 5.5; grades 9-11: 5; grade 12: 11 Past Policy elementary: 5.5; secondary: 5 Past Policy elementary/middle teachers: 5.5; secondary: 5 Past Policy 5.5 Past Policy elementary: 10.5; secondary: 9.5 Past Policy 9 2010-2011 School Year Calendar Past Policy 8 2009-2010 School Year Calendar Past Policy 8 2008-2009 School Year Calendar
School Day
How long is the school day for elementary students?	6 hours, 45 minutes to 7 hours (varies by school) (total) All schools dismiss 90 minutes early on Wednesdays throughout the school year. District website: http://www.dmschools.org/schools/school-hours-2/
How long is the school day for secondary students?	6 hours, 30 minutes to 6 hours, 55 minutes (varies by school) (total) All schools dismiss 90 minutes early on Wednesdays throughout the school year. District website: http://www.dmschools.org/schools/school-hours-2/
How long is the scheduled workday for teachers? (total time scheduled on-site, including lunch)	7 hours, 45 minutes p. 11, Art. XIII.A.1.
How much time is the teacher required to be on-site beyond the length of the student day? (This does not include time for meetings)	the employer shall determine the arrival and departure time for each employee p. 11, Art. XIII.A.2.
Preparation Time
How much planning time does an elementary teacher receive?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
How much planning time does a secondary teacher receive?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
How much teacher planning time is designated for collaborative planning?	thirty-six (36) hours of collaboration time, in accordance with Iowa Code Section 284.6(8) Individual preparation time will not be used to provide this collaboration time. p. 50, Letter of Understanding – Collaboration Time (2016-2018).

Class Size questions

Class Size Restrictions
What are the class size restrictions?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Board Policy 636: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/
What happens when the class size limit is exceeded?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Board Policy 636: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/

Compensation - Salary questions

Structure of the Salary Schedule
What type of salary schedule is in use?	Traditional salary schedule (step and lane) A traditional salary schedule is in use but teachers may also opt into an alternative schedule for up to 8 years and will then move to the traditional salary schedule. Teachers new to the profession may choose to opt into the Alternative Salary Schedule. If opting in, they must remain on that schedule for at least 4 years. If a teacher successfully completes all 8 years of the schedule, s/he will move to the traditional salary schedule and be compensated based on education level and experience.
What is the average percent increase in pay earned for each additional year of experience?	2.1% (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. We were unable to do this same calculation in 2016-2017 because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5; thus, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy 2.8% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Past Policy 2.6% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Past Policy 2.5% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Past Policy bachelor's lane: 2.96%; master's lane: 2.99%; (teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract and that pay schedule earn a 1% increase for each additional year of experience) Past Policy bachelor's lane: 2.97%; master's lane: 3.00%
Teachers in most districts earn a raise for each additional year of experience and an annual adjustment for cost of living and other factors. What is that average annual adjustment? (reported as a percentage of change from the previous year)	1.1% (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. We were unable to do this same calculation in 2016-2017 because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5; thus, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). p. 1. Past Policy 1.2% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Past Policy 2.2% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Past Policy 1.0% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Past Policy 0.99% Past Policy 0% Past Policy 10.9% 2009-2010 Salary Schedule, 2010-2011 Salary Schedule
What is the average total change in salary accounting for both earning an additional year of experience and an annual adjustment for cost of living and other factors? (reported as the percentage of change from the previous year)	3.2% (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. We were unable to do this same calculation in 2016-2017 because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5; thus, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). p. 1. Past Policy 3.9% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Past Policy 4.8% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Past Policy 3.4% These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Past Policy 3.99% Past Policy 2.99% Past Policy 14.3% 2009-2010 Salary Schedule, 2010-2011 Salary Schedule
What is the average difference between the master's and bachelor's salary?	$5,451 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. We were unable to do this same calculation in 2016-2017 because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5; thus, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $2,333 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Past Policy $2,283 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 2,021 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 4,209 Past Policy 4,184 Past Policy 4,184 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 4,184 2009-2010 Salary Schedule
How many lanes (or columns) based on advanced degrees or credit attainment are on the teacher's salary schedule?	8: BA, BA+15, BA+30, MA, MA+15, MA+30, MA+45 (stipend pay), PhD (stipend pay); for teachers opting into the Alternative Salary Schedule, there is only one "lane" on that salary schedule Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Teachers who began their career with a BA move to the traditional salary schedule on the MA lane and those who began with an MA move to the MA+30 lane. Past Policy 7: BA, BA+15, BA+30, MA, MA+15, MA+30, PhD (stipend pay); for teachers opting in to the Alternative Salary Schedule, there is only one "lane" on that salary schedule Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Teachers who began their career with a BA move to the traditional salary schedule on the MA lane and those who began with an MA move to the MA+30 lane. Past Policy 7: BA, BA+15, BA+30, MA, MA+15, MA+30, PhD (stipend pay); for teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract, there is only one "lane" on that salary schedule Past Policy 7: BA, BA+15, BA+30, MA, MA+15, MA+30, PhD (stipend pay); for teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract, there is only one "lane" on that salary schedule Past Policy 5: BA, BA+15, MA, MA+15, MA+30; (for teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract, there is only one "lane" on that salary schedule) Past Policy 5: BA, BA+15, MA, MA+15,MA+30 There is a stipend available to teachers with a PhD. Past Policy 5: BA, BA+15, MA, MA+15,MA+30 There is a stipend available to teachers with a PhD. 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 5: BA, BA+15, MA, MA+15,+30 There is a stipend available to teachers with a PhD. 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 5: BA, BA+15, MA, MA+15,+30 There is a stipend available to teachers with a PhD. 2007-2008 Salary Schedule
In what year of service will a teacher with a bachelor's and/or master's degree reach the maximum salary (assuming no step freezes)?	20 A teacher who begins and ends on the traditional salary schedule will reach maximum salary at year 20, as will a teacher who begins on the Alternative Schedule and ends on the traditional schedule. A teacher who begins on the Alternative Schedule with a bachelor's degree will transition to the master's lane upon successful completion of the Alternative Salary Schedule (after 8 years), while a teacher who begins with a master's degree will transition to the master's +30 lane.
Annual Salary
What is the annual salary for a fully certified, first year teacher with a bachelor's degree?	$40,160 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. A teacher who begins on the Alternative Salary Schedule earns $43,715 in his/her first year. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $40,625 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy $40,814 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 40,625 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 37,229 (teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract will earn $40,532 in the first year) Past Policy 36,834 Past Policy 36,830 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 32,404 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 31,278 2009-2010 Salary Schedule
What is the annual salary for a teacher with a bachelor's degree and 5 years of experience?	$46,420 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $46,497 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy $46,686 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 46,497 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 43,046 (teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract will earn $46,610 once they have 5 years experience) Past Policy 42,616 Past Policy 42,612 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 38,186 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 36,859 2009-2010 Salary Schedule
What is the annual salary for a teacher with a bachelor's degree on the highest step of the salary schedule?	$59,869 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $66,584 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. A teacher who begins with a bachelor's degree will transition to the master's lane on the traditional salary schedule upon successful completion of the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy $65,195 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. A teacher who begins with a bachelor's degree will transition to the master's lane upon successful completion. Past Policy 63,267 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. A teacher who begins with a bachelor's degree will transition to the master's lane upon successful completion. Past Policy 51,304 (in order to reach the highest step, teachers must meet the training increment before step 11: the completion of 6 semester hours of work over 5 years); (teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract will earn a maximum of $47,879 after 7 years) After 7 years of experience, teachers opting in to the Alternate Contract will have earned a master's degree though the district program and move to the appropriate place on the traditional salary schedule. Past Policy 50,824 Past Policy 50,820 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 46,394 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 44,782 2009-2010 Salary Schedule
What is the annual salary for a fully certified, first year teacher with a master's degree?	$43,715 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. A teacher who begins on the Alternative Salary Schedule earns $43,715 in his/her first year. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $40,625 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy $40,814 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 40,625 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 40,532 Past Policy 40,118 Past Policy 40,114 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 35,688 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 34,448 2009-2010 Salary Schedule
What is the annual salary for a teacher with a master's degree and 5 years of experience?	$50,671 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. A teacher who begins on the Alternative Salary Schedule earns $43,715 in his/her first year. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $46,497 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy $46,686 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 46,497 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy 46,995 Past Policy 46,541 Past Policy 46,537 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 42,111 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 40,648 2009-2010 Salary Schedule
What is the annual salary for a teacher with a master's degree on the highest step of the salary schedule?	$67,289 (based on the traditional salary schedule only) These calculations are based on a teacher starting and ending on the traditional salary schedule. In past years, our calculations have been based on a teacher who begins her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitions to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. Teachers who successfully complete 8 years on the Alternative Salary Schedule earn a master’s degree in teacher effectiveness through the district program and; therefore, transition to the traditional salary schedule on a higher lane. Because the district is recalculating salaries on the Alternative Salary Schedule in year 5, we only have salaries for years 0-4 on the Alternative Salary Schedule. p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $71,023 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. A teacher who begins with a master's degree will transition to the master's +30 lane on the traditional salary schedule upon successful completion of the alternative salary schedule. Past Policy $69,540 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. A teacher who begins with a master's degree will transition to the master's +30 lane upon successful completion. Past Policy 67,497 These calculations are based on a teacher beginning her career on the alternative salary schedule and successfully transitioning to the traditional salary schedule after 8 years. There is no difference in pay for bachelor's and master's degrees on the alternative salary schedule. A teacher who begins with a master's degree will transition to the master's +30 lane upon successful completion. Past Policy 57,695 (in order to reach the highest step, teachers must meet the training increment before step 11: the completion of 6 semester hours of work over 5 years) Past Policy 57,176 Past Policy 57,172 2010-2011 Salary Schedule Past Policy 52,746 2009-2010 Salary Schedule Past Policy 50,913 22009-2010 Salary Schedule
What is the maximum annual salary available to teachers? What are the education requirements for this salary? In what year of service will a teacher receive this salary?	$73,271; PhD; 20 p. 2 (pdf). Past Policy $72,023; PhD; 20 Past Policy $70,540; PhD; 20 Past Policy 68,497; PhD; 20 Past Policy 62,573 ; PhD; 13 Past Policy 61,030 ; MA+30; 13
Performance Pay
Is annual salary increase tied to evaluation rating?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Teachers will be granted a vertical step if performance standards have been met (p. 21, Art. XVI); however, it's not clear if or how evaluation rating determines salary.
If an annual salary increase is tied to evaluation rating, how do annual salary increases work?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Teachers will be granted a vertical step if performance standards have been met (p. 21, Art. XVI); however, it's not clear if or how evaluation rating determines salary.
Aside from annual salary increases, are other aspects of a teacher’s pay based on evaluation rating?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Teachers will be granted a vertical step if performance standards have been met (p. 21, Art. XVI); however, it's not clear if or how evaluation rating determines salary.
Do teachers earn performance pay for factors other than evaluation ratings?	yes; $400 performance stipend is available as defined in Comprehensive School Transformation Plan; teachers working under the Alternative Contract are eligible for a 0.5% increase on their base salary in years 5 through 8 for meeting student learning growth targets Teachers will be granted a vertical step if performance standards have been met (p. 21, Art. XVI); however, it's not clear if or how evaluation rating determines salary. p. 38, App. 3 & p. 43, App. 4.XVI.
Other Differentiated Pay
Can a teacher earn additional pay by working in a school classified as "high-needs"?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can a teacher earn additional pay by teaching subjects deemed 'hard to staff'?	yes, teachers of acute shortage areas earn a one-time recruitment incentive of $3,000 paid over 3 years. The employer has the sole discretion to identify positions as acute shortage areas. p. 33, App. 1.
Can a teacher who has National Board certification earn additional pay?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What compensation is offered to a teacher who serves as a department head at the secondary level?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
General Salary Information
Are uncertified teachers paid less than fully certified teachers?	Uncertified teachers cannot be the teacher of record Board Policy 403: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/ p. 33, App. 1.
Can a teacher get credit on the salary schedule for subject-related work experience? How many years of experience are awarded for subject-related experience?	yes, job-related work experience in a duly accredited place of employment is recognized; 14 years; business or industrial education teachers can get credit for up to two years p. 21, Art. XVI. Board Procedure 430: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/
Are teachers eligible for a longevity bonus? If so, in what year(s) of service is a teacher eligible?	yes, after 1 year at the maximum step of the appropriate salary lane on the traditional salary schedule; additional longevity pay is given after 1 year on step 20 on the traditional salary schedule p. 33, App. 1.

Dismissal questions

Dismissals
Following an unsatisfactory final evaluation, how much time must a tenured teacher (or annual contract where tenure nonexistent) be in formal remediation before s/he may be dismissed or non-renewed at the end of the school year?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What is the process for dismissal of an ineffective teacher?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Does a nontenured teacher have any recourse if his/her contract is not renewed?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
By what date must a nontenured teacher be notified of non-renewal of his/her contract?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
When must a tenured teacher be notified of his/her dismissal?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents

Evaluation questions

Evaluation System
What is the teacher required to be evaluated on?	Professional practice (Collaboration and Coordination; Effectiveness with Youth and Families; Professional Qualities; School Performance Outcomes) pp. 6 & 7, Art. IX, Sec. 2A.
Do impartial third parties from outside the school serve as evaluators?	Optional Non-tenured teachers who opt into the alternate contract (p. 40, App. 4) are evaluated by a team which could include a third party evaluator. p. 40, App. 4.IX.
Is peer review a component of teacher evaluation; what is the nature of the review?	other yes - optional obseration and feedback without rating to administrator for non-tenured only who opt to work under the alternate contract p. 40, App. 4.IX.
Does the evaluation include student input?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What kind of feedback does a teacher receive following a formal observation(s)?	Conference with evaluator p. 6, Art. IX, Sec. 1.C.
What kind of feedback must the teacher receive following an evaluation?	Written report p. 6, Art. IX, Sec. 1.D.
How many categories of ratings are there?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Are evaluators required to give notice of an observation?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Role of Student Achievement in Teacher Evaluation
How is student growth/achievement calculated for teachers of tested subjects?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents pp. 6 & 7, Art. IX.
How is student achievement/growth calculated for teachers of non-tested subjects?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents pp. 6 & 7, Art. IX.
Evaluation Requirements for non-tenured Teachers
How frequently do non-tenured teachers receive an evaluation rating?	Once a year p. 6, Art. IX, Sec. 1.B. & p. 40, App. 4.IX.
What is the minimum number of times a non-tenured teacher must be observed during the evaluation?	teachers who work under regular contract: 3 in first year, 1x in second and third year; teachers who opt to work under alternate contract: 3x/year all three years p. 6, Art. IX, Sec. 1.B & p. 40, App. 4.IX.
What is the deadline for the first formal observation of the non-tenured teacher?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents For first year teachers or teachers who opt to work under alternate contract, two of the three observations must be completed by end of first semester (p. 6, Art. IX, Sec. 1.B & p. 41, App. 4)
What is the deadline for the final evaluation of the non-tenured teacher?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What is the required minimum length of the formal observation for a non-tenured teacher?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Evaluation Requirements for Tenured Teachers
How frequently do tenured teachers receive an evaluation rating?	Other once every three years unless teacher opts for alternate contract in which case it is 1x/yr for teachers in years 4-8 p. 6, Art IX, Sec. 1.B; p. 40, App. 4.IX.
What is the minimum number of times a tenured teacher must be observed during the evaluation?	1; 3 for teachers in years 4-8 who opt to work under alternate contract p. 6, Art. IX, Sec. 1, B; p. 40, App. 4.IX.
What is the deadline for the first formal observation of the tenured teacher?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What is the deadline for the final evaluation of the tenured teacher?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What is the minimum length of a tenured teacher's formal observation?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Consequences of a Negative Evaluation
Following an unsatisfactory final evaluation, how much time must a tenured teacher (or annual contract where tenure nonexistent) be in formal remediation before s/he may be dismissed or non-renewed at the end of the school year?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Does the district assign a mentor or support team to the teacher in remediation?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
How many classroom observations (minimum) are required during remediation?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
How long is the remediation process?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can the teacher file a grievance or formally appeal an evaluation rating if there are no acknowledged procedural violations?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can a teacher request a second evaluation from a different evaluator?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents

Layoffs questions

Layoffs
Must nontenured teachers be laid off before tenured?	Other no for site-based layoffs; yes for district-based If layoffs occur within a school rather than district-wide, experience, preparation and performance hold greater weight than seniority, which serves only as a tie breaker. pp. 9 & 10, Art. XI.A.1 & 2.
Aside from program and staffing needs, what are the criteria for laying off teachers?	Other site-based layoffs by academic preparation/experience, skill, competence, ability; district-based by seniority If layoffs occur within a school rather than district-wide, experience, preparation and performance hold greater weight than seniority which serves only as a tie breaker. pp. 9 & 10, Art. XI.A.1 & 2.
In the case of a layoff, is seniority determined at the school level or district level?	District level p. 10, Art. XI.A.2.
What is the notification deadline for teacher layoffs?	30 calendar days prior to the layoff p. 10, Art. XI.B.
When the district needs to hire new teachers, are laid off teachers either given recall rights or preference?	Yes-mandatory recall of all teachers in inverse order of layoffs p. 10, Art. XI.C.
How long does a laid off teacher retain recall rights?	1 year from effective date of layoffs p. 10, Art. XI.C.

Leave questions

Sick & Personal Leave
What is the total possible number of paid general leave days (sick, personal, and other days used for personal reasons) a teacher can get each year?	18+ (15 sick; 1 for funeral of close friend; 2 personal, religious holidays [number of days not specified]) Up to 2 of the 5 allowed bereavement days (per the comprehensive agreement) may be used for hospice visitation. Three sick days may be used for family illness leave. p. 14, Art. XV.B; p. 15, Art. XV.E.3; p. 16, Art. XV.F; p. 18, Art. XV.O. Past Policy 19 (2015-2016), 18 (2016-2017): (15 sick; 1 for funeral of close friend; 3 personal [for 2015-2016] or 2 personal [for 2016-2017], religious holidays [number of days not specified]) Up to 2 of the 5 allowed bereavement days (per the comprehensive agreement) may be used for hospice visitation. Three sick days may be used for family illness leave. p. 15, Art. XV.B; p. 16, Art. XV.E.3; p. 17, Art. XV.F; p. 19, Art. XV.O. Past Policy 17 (15 sick; 1 day for funeral of close friend; 1 day personal/business activities, unspecified amount for religious holidays) pp. 15-19, Art. XV Past Policy 17 (15 sick; 1 day for funeral of close friend; 1 day personal/business activities, unspecified amount for religious holidays) pp. 14-18, Art. 15. B, E.2, G, P. Past Policy 17 (15 sick; 1 personal/business activities day; 1 day for funeral of close friend) Teachers may also receive an unspecified amount of paid leave for religious holidays not already on the school calendar. pp. 14, 16; Art. XV. B, F, G.
What is the total number of paid sick and personal days a teacher gets each year?	17 (15 sick; 2 personal) Three sick days may be used for family illness leave. p. 14, Art. XV.B & p. 16, Art. XV.F. Past Policy 18 (2015-2016), 17 (2016-2017): (15 sick, 3 personal [for 2015-2016] or 2 personal [for 2016-2017]) Three sick days may be used for family illness leave. p. 15, Art. XV.B & p. 17, Art. XV.F. Past Policy 16 (15 sick, 1 personal) Three sick days may be used for family illness leave. The 1 personal day is deducted from emergency leave. pp. 15 & 17, Art. XV. Past Policy 16 (15 sick, 1 personal) Three sick days may be used for family illness leave. Up to 5 sick days may be utilized for adoption. pp. 14 & 16, Art. XV. B, G. Past Policy 16 Includes 1 day for "personal or business activities". pp. 14, 16 Art. XV. B, G. Past Policy 16 (15 sick days, 1 personal day) pp. 14, 16 Art. XV-B, F Past Policy 16 (15 sick days; 1 personal day) pp. 14, 16 Art. XV-B, F Past Policy 18 pp. 14, 16 Art. XV-B, F
Can unused sick days carry over from one year to the next?	Yes p. 14, Art. XV.B.
Can unused personal days carry over from one year to the next?	Yes up to 5 days may be carried over from year to year p. 176, Art. XV.F.f.
What is the maximum number of sick days a teacher can accumulate?	115 p. 14, Art. XV.B.
After how many days of absence does a teacher have to provide medical documentation for sick leave?	10 Board Procedure 432.2: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/
Professional Development Leave
Is there additional paid leave for any professional development not already scheduled and required by the district? How much?	Yes paid leave to attend educational meetings or to visit other schools (number of days not specified); 1 year sabbatical leave (amount of pay not specified) Employee must have served five consecutive years in the district to be eligible for sabbatical leave. pp. 16 & 17, Art. XV.I. & J.
Other Leave
Apart from general leave (sick, personal, and other leave for personal reasons) and professional development, what other types of paid leave does the district offer?	bereavement-immediate family (5 days), jury duty, military reserve training (30 days) p. 15, Art. XV.E.1; p. 16, Art. XV.G; p. 17, Art. XV.K.
Is leave available for a teacher to attend union associated activities (not counting leave given to elected union representatives)?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Past Policy yes, up to 50 days to be shared among all the teachers to attend conferences or seminars of the local, state or national Associations p. 20, Art. XV.Q. Past Policy issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Past Policy issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Past Policy issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents Past Policy issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Attendance Incentives
When are leave days restricted or subject to refusal?	first or last week of student semester; immediately before or after holiday or vacations; during parent-teacher conferences; when teacher gives less than 2 days notice of leave p. 16, Art. XV.F.c & d.
Can a teacher earn additional pay or leave days for demonstrating good job attendance? How much?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can a teacher receive payment for unused sick leave at the end of each school year? How much?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can a teacher receive payment for unused personal leave at the end of each school year? How much?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Can a teacher receive payment for unused sick leave at retirement? How much?	Other employees approved for early retirement effective in the 2003 school year and thereafter may receive payout for unused sick leave (no details given); all other employees: no p. 15, Art. XV.B.
Can a teacher receive payment for unused personal leave at retirement? How much?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents

Professional Development questions

General
Is there additional paid leave for any professional development not already scheduled and required by the district? How much?	Yes paid leave to attend educational meetings or to visit other schools (number of days not specified); 1 year sabbatical leave (amount of pay not specified) Employee must have served five consecutive years in the district to be eligible for sabbatical leave. pp. 16 & 17, Art. XV.I. & J.
How long is the mentorship program for a new teacher?	3 years p. 40, App. 4, Art. IX.1.B.
How long is the standard orientation that the district provides for new teachers?	2 days

Tenure questions

Role of Tenure on Teacher Assignment and Employment
What is the minimum number of years of experience that a teacher must have in a district before tenure is granted?	3 years p. 35.
Can the district decide to extend the nontenured period if the principal is uncertain that the teacher should receive tenure?	Yes The probationary period may be extended for one year. Board Policy 414: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/

Transfer & Assignment questions

Transfers
Are internal transfers given priority over new hires for vacant positions?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Are principals and/or site selection committees allowed to select voluntary transfer applicants to hire? If not, then how are voluntary transfers assigned to schools?	yes, principals interview teachers in two rounds of job fairs pp. 8 & 9, Art. X.B.3 & 6.
Separate from excessing, does the district allow school or district administrators to involuntarily transfer a teacher to another school? If so, for what reasons is he/she allowed to initiate such a transfer?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Identifying Involuntary Transfers Due to Excessing
Are teachers identified for excessing in reverse order of seniority?	Seniority is only used as a tiebreaker if all other factors are equal. p. 9, Art. X.C & Art. XI.A.1.
How are teachers identified for excessing?	multiple criteria including: education preparation and experience, needs of the school district, relative skill, ability and competence - when all are equal, seniority shall be the determining factor p. 9, Art. X.C. & Art IX.A.1.
Placing Excessed Teachers
How are excessed teachers assigned to schools?	Other central office places teacher based upon the qualifications of the individual and the needs of the district Board Policy 412: http://www.dmschools.org/board/administrative-policies-and-procedures/series-400/
If excessed teachers are not hired by mutual consent, what happens if there are no available openings?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents

Contract Waivers questions

Waivers
Is there a system in place to accept waivers or variance provisions for portions of or the entire collective-bargaining agreement?	Issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
Do teachers have a vote in a request for a waiver?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents
What requirements must be met for a waiver of contract provisions to be approved?	issue not addressed in scope of NCTQ reviewed documents