Bill > HB444

This bill establishes the "Missouri Teachers Matter Grant Program" to provide financial incentives and recognition for qualified teachers who go above and beyond their standard teaching duties. Under this program, teachers can receive two types of grants: an MTM district grant (up to $2,000 total, with matching funds from the school district) and an MTM state grant (up to $4,000 total). To be eligible, teachers must have a valid teaching certificate, receive satisfactory performance evaluations, and complete at least 80 hours of additional self-directed duties beyond their contract. These duties can include coaching extracurricular activities, mentoring students or teachers, obtaining additional training, tutoring, helping with college preparation, and organizing educational events. The grants will be distributed in two installments during the school year after the teacher renews their contract and documents their extra work. The program is set to automatically sunset after six years unless reauthorized by the state legislature, and it is designed to provide additional compensation without being classified as a bonus. School districts are not required to offer these grants if they lack funding, and the grant amounts may be subject to collective bargaining negotiations.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB444&year=2025&code=R