CARY  – Local school districts across the state are joining the chorus of those complaining about a new state roapmap for pay teachers they argue would also strip them of some career benefits. The Wake County School Board, which oversees the state’s largest school system, voted unanimously Tuesday to pass a resolution to oppose a law that allow district to grant bonuses to 25 percent of teachers. But, in exchange those teachers would have to surrender their “career status” a type of tenure considered important to educators job security. They instead would receive four-year contracts.

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During the meeting and at a press conference earlier in the day Tuesday, school leaders called it counterproductive and harmful to education.

Wake County School Board members want legislators to repeal the law during the short session and come up with a more effective plan for teacher pay.

"This legislation creates division among teachers, when we know the better way to improve our schools is through collaboration," said Board Chairwoman Christine Kushner. 

"We applaud the General Assembly for its efforts to improve teacher pay, but we ask them to do more. Talented teachers are walking away from Wake County, and away from North Carolina. We are asking the General Assembly to reconsider this legislation, and in its place, develop a compensation plan that is tied to career growth and pulls North Carolina teacher salaries up to the national average."

School Board Vice-Chair Tom Benton says teacher morale is the lowest he's seen it in 40 years.

The North Carolina Association of Educators has filed a lawsuit to repeal the law. The Guilford County school board also plans to file a lawsuit.
Durham Public Schools could also get into the legal fray, as they are considering joining the Guilford lawsuit.