HIGH POINT, N.C. (WGHP) — For years, North Carolina teachers got a pay increase when they earned their master’s degree. It was called a common-sense move since it made them more valuable in the classroom.
But did it?
Much of the research surrounding the concept says there is little, if any, improvement in educational outcomes for kids when their teachers earn a master’s degree. But veteran teacher Kayla Ranew said there are improvements you can’t always measure in her teaching since she earned her master’s degree.
While NC teachers wait for raises, Governor Stein helps kickoff school supply drive
“While maybe it doesn’t translate into test scores, I think it makes me a better teacher on a day-to-day,” said Kayla, who has taught at High Point Central High School for more than a decade. “It forces you to sit back and look at what you’re doing as a teacher, and I think that’s very valuable.”
NC ranks among lowest in country for teacher pay: Study
And getting her master’s degree may soon pay off for her as well since the general assembly appears to be reinstating the bonus. The sponsors of that legislation from the Triad include Donny Lambeth, Alan Branson, John Blust, Cecil Brockman, Pricey Harrison, Amos Quick and Stephen Ross. It’s a blend of Republicans and Democrats.
NC teacher turnover down compared to last year, but still higher than recent years: Report
High Point Central Principal Mike Hettenback is for anything that better compensates his faculty, but he said the real value is simply doing the work, day after day, year after year…