Teachers, Principals to Get Reward Checks

The California Department of Education is preparing to mail sizable reward checks intended for principals and teachers at low-ranking schools that significantly boosted Stanford 9 test scores last year.

The money had been withheld because of a legal challenge to the program by some Sacramento teachers. In July, a Sacramento Superior Court judge rejected the teachers’ argument that they qualify for the program, and said the state could disburse the $100 million in rewards.

The teachers appealed, but the agency said it has decided to issue the checks after receiving assurances from the Gov. Gray Davis administration that it will cover additional costs if the appellate court rules in the teachers’ favor.

The checks--up to $25,000--will reach districts in six weeks, an Education Department spokesman said.