FRIENDLY SKIES?

Florida airline finds a way to get some attention

The way things were going, it was just a matter of time, really. Still, the news doesn't sit well: A $45 fee per airline carry-on bag?

That's what Spirit Airlines will start charging on its flights starting Aug. 1.

The Miramar, Fla.-based carrier said having fewer carry-on bags will help empty planes faster. And since it just dropped its lowest fare by an average of $40, the airline says the carry-on strategy can help keep base fares low while leaving it up to customers to pay for individual things they want.

A la carte fees for items like meals, blankets and pillows already are becoming the norm on most planes.

But carry-ons? That's definitely NOT the spirit.

Other airlines are sure to be watching what happens come Aug. 1.

MILESTONE

Merit pay establishes a beachhead in Washington, D.C.

Education reform is a national issue and some real headway is being made in Washington, D.C., where District of Columbia schools and the local teachers' union have reached a preliminary bargaining agreement that includes a voluntary, performance-based pay system.

Education Week reports that, in what appears to be a U.S. first, four private foundations have put up $65 million in merit pay for teachers deemed most effective in the classroom.

Teachers who participate wouldn't give up their due-process rights, but the contract would make it easier to fire poor performers and reward the best classroom educators — who could each earn more than $100,000 a year.