I want to thank E. P. Hyatt (Readers' Forum, Aug. 27) for wanting to pay for good teachers. But I wonder who would decide which teachers are deserving of extra money. Teachers don't work with nuts and bolts. Students come to schools with unique, individual characteristics. Different students respond to different teaching techniques and different personalities. Is a teacher who gets a struggling student's reading level to climb two years an excellent teacher? Or is it one who challenges the students already above grade level to reach further and think more deeply? How about the teacher who helps a student develop a latent talent or conquer an old fear?
Student histories and home support need to be factored in. Even wonderful teachers cannot overcome problems in homes.
I certainly agree, good teachers are worthy of more pay. I just wonder how the decision would be made and by whom.
Jo Anne Lamoreaux
Sandy