Accountability and Incentive Systems
Schools are evaluated annually by external monitoring groups established by the provincial education offices. They complete school inspections based on a Ministry of Education evaluation plan, which sets directions and standards. School evaluations review teaching and learning practices, curriculum and student needs.The Ministry of Education has recently added school-based performance awards in which top-performing schools receive bonuses. School reviews are not used punitively; rather, struggling schools are given administrative advice about how to improve. The results of school evaluations are reported publicly.
Teachers are evaluated by their principals although the principal does not have the power to directly reward or punish teachers based on their evaluations. There are, however, incentives for high performance. One major incentive is the designation of “Master Teacher,” which entitles effective, seasoned teachers to a small monthly stipend in addition to their normal salary. Additional incentives include bonuses and study abroad opportunities.