In Teacher Layoffs, Seniority Rules. But Should It?
School districts around the country are planning massive layoffs as they struggle to bridge big budget deficits. And as they select which teachers go and which ones stay, many can only use one factor as their guide: seniority. Many districts will have to cast out effective teachers, because local contracts and even state laws require it. Larry Abramson, National Public Radio, June 3, 2010