Introduction to the Controversy
Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles is at the center of a controversy after receiving a bonus of $173,660 based on his annual performance evaluation. This bonus comes just three months after he was awarded a raise that makes him one of the highest-paid superintendents in Texas.
Background on Mike Miles
Miles has been the state-appointed superintendent for Houston ISD since June 2023. During his tenure, the district has seen improved standardized test scores, but also widespread staffing turnover and pushback from teachers, parents, and district stakeholders. His instructional reforms have been a subject of debate, with some praising the results and others criticizing the approach.
The Bonus and Contract Details
Miles received an evaluation score of 91.4 out of 100 possible points, which translates to a bonus of $173,660, representing 91.4% of the maximum annual incentive pay outlined in his contract. His contract provides for a competitive salary in line with other leaders of large Texas districts, along with the opportunity for incentive pay tied to results. In June, Miles received a raise of $82,000 per year as part of a new five-year contract, increasing his annual base salary to $462,000.
Reaction from the Teachers’ Union
The Houston Federation of Teachers, the largest teachers’ union in HISD, has criticized the bonus, arguing that it is unfair when compared to the salaries of teachers in the district. The union is seeking to prevent the district from doling out state-funded teacher raises based on performance rather than years of service. According to the union, Miles’ bonus is more than any teacher in HISD makes in a year, which raises questions about the justification of such a bonus when teachers are being denied a state-allocated pay raise.
Performance Metrics and Accountability
HISD received a "B" grade of 82 from the Texas Education Agency in its 2024-25 accountability ratings, up from a "C" grade of 79 the year before. The district also saw a significant reduction in the number of "D" and "F" rated campuses. These improvements are largely based on standardized test scores, which have ticked upward under Miles’ tenure. According to Duncan Klussmann, an associate clinical professor of education at the University of Houston, Miles’ incentive pay is warranted based on the performance metrics outlined in his contract.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Mike Miles’ bonus highlights the complex issues facing education, including performance-based pay, teacher salaries, and accountability metrics. While some argue that Miles’ bonus is justified based on the district’s improved performance, others see it as unfair and disproportionate to the salaries of teachers. As the debate continues, it is essential to consider the implications of such decisions on the education system and the stakeholders involved. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a fair and equitable system that rewards performance while also ensuring that all educators are valued and compensated appropriately.
