Interesting proposal up for approval by DISD’s board concerning performance bonuses of up to $10,000 next year to be made available for only the top 40 percent of district teachers, according to a story in the DMN. DISD’s head of personnel and compensation, Kimberly Olson, describes the program as similar to compensation plans used in private business. DISD says the first five years of the plan, expected to cost $22.4 million, will be funded by a federal grant awarded to establish a performance-based bonus program. The News does a good job outlining the plan, so check the story for specifics. I go back and forth on the viability and advisability of paying teachers for performance, given the obvious differences in students, environment, administrative support, etc. But I also know the motivational power of a cash bonus hanging from a relatively low-hanging branch, so I’ll be interested to see how the program plays out, assuming DISD’s board approves it.