<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The neutrality of this article is disputed . Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page . Please do not remove this message until conditions to do so are met . (August 2012) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The neutrality of this article is disputed . Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page . Please do not remove this message until conditions to do so are met . (August 2012) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> Teacher tenure is a policy that restricts the ability to fire teachers, requiring a "just cause" rationale for firing . The individual states each have established their own tenure systems . Tenure provides teachers with protections by making it difficult to fire teachers who earn tenure . Many states are focusing on tenure reform . Revisions would be made so that the tenure system no longer functions the same way as the existing tenure system functions . </P> <P> Tenure has been a controversial issue for some time . 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 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). During this probation period, teachers must prove they are worthy of receiving tenure . They must prove that they are having a positive effect on their students using a teacher evaluation system, which includes information from several facets of a teacher's responsibilities . Some common facets are classroom observations, student growth, and self - reflection (see, for example, New Haven and the state of Virginia). </P>

What does it mean for a teacher to be tenured
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