Can charter schools reward teachers with gift cards for excellent student test scores?
Question: I was wondering if charter schools are allowed to give their teachers gift cards for excellent student test scores as a reward for outstanding teacher performance. If so, are there any limitations on the amounts the gift cards have to be under? Response: Questions often arise about the giving of gifts, which has a personal as opposed to public character. Contrary to what often occurs in the field, gifts are not allowable, even if the amount is small. Gift certificates are ordinarily characterized as gifts of public funds even when purchased for an event with a public purpose, because they confer a tangible private benefit on an individual. To avoid making a gift of public funds with gift certificates, ask merchants or individuals to donate gift certificates. While some school administrators may feel that the school site or district benefits from positive relationships established by sending gifts to students, parents, board members or others, the real public relations value i
