Bill > HB537

This bill creates the Teacher Excellence and Accountability for Mathematics and Science (TEAMS) Salary Schedule Program. It provides additional compensation for eligible math and science teachers, including a $5,000 annual supplement for those teaching in hard-to-staff schools. The program is administered by the State Department of Education and requires participating teachers to meet certain criteria, such as obtaining specialized certifications. The bill establishes a dedicated TEAMS Fund in the State Treasury to provide funding for the salary increases and supplements, with the appropriations coming from the Education Trust Fund. The bill also sets forth the terms of employment contracts for participating teachers, including provisions for probationary and nonprobationary contracts.