The Utah Career Ladder System was evaluated, in an effort to provide policy options for Phase II of the Career Ladder implementation in Utah and present policy recommendations. Five major data collection efforts were made: (1) analysis of district career ladder plans from 1985-86 through 1987-88; (2) a telephone survey of Utah's 40 superintendents and school board presidents; (3) a mail survey of all principals (response rate of 68%) and a random sample of 1,500 teachers (response rate of 63%); (4) a fiscal analysis of teacher salary distribution in 10 districts employing 12,817 teachers; and (5) case studies of career ladder implementation in 12 districts. Strong support was found from superintendents, principals, and teachers for continuing the system. Teacher compensation was being differentiated on the basis of teaching excellence and responsibilities. The single greatest effect of the system was more frequent and effective evaluations. Twelve tables complement the text. Appendices include tabulated survey findings and the research instruments. (SLD)