You are 100% correct about the school board elections. It's my understanding that teacher are hired by the board, which is unusual. In most districts I am told that hiring is done at the principle level. Our system allow for a lot of nepitism. Also tenure is a big problem. I spoke with a retired principle who told me that once a teacher has tenure, it doesn't matter what kind of job reviews they receive, basically nothing can be done unless they are doing something illegal or violating some district rules. Competency is not ground for termination. I wonder why they fight against performance pay so much?