1. The document discusses tying teacher pay to student test scores through merit pay programs. It provides background on programs implemented in various states like Florida and Massachusetts and criticisms of such programs from teacher unions. 2. The document also discusses issues of cheating on standardized tests that have arisen with high-stakes testing, finding evidence of cheating in Atlanta, Texas, and other areas. 3. An assignment at the end asks the reader to research teacher pay structures, the impact of merit pay programs, and generate a list of problems and solutions related to tying teacher pay to student performance.