Tenure has been a controversial issue for some time.[4] However, lately reforming or eliminating teacher tenure has become a pressing issue covered vastly by the media. Many politicians are actively voicing their opinions on tenure. Many states have new plans for their tenure system. There are many different reforms which are trying to be passed by legislation. It is hard to get reforms passed because one side of the debate must give up something every time a proposal is made. Some argue[who?] tenure is no longer necessary and that it is hurting America 's education system. Others argue tenure provides vital protections for teachers. While each state has its own specifics for how teacher tenure works, most hold a similar form. Each new teacher is given a probation period (probation periods vary among states). …show more content…
They must prove that they are having a positive effect on their students. Take a look at New Jersey 's tenure system as an example. Currently under New Jersey 's tenure system, a teacher is placed on probation for three years. During or after these three years, the principal must decide if the school will grant tenure to this teacher. If so, the teacher will be asked to work there for a fourth year and will be granted tenure. The principal is able to fire a teacher at any time during the probation period. However, once a teacher is tenured, the principal can no longer fire a teacher without just cause. The teacher is then protected by tenure. There are four reasons a teacher may be fired in New Jersey once they are tenured. The reasons include: incapacity, inefficiency, unbecoming conduct and just cause. A teacher being fired for any of these reasons is given a chance to defend their