Bill > SB554

This bill modifies Oklahoma's teacher certification system by replacing salary increases with stipends for advanced, lead, and master teaching certificates. The bill establishes a tiered certification system where teachers can receive financial incentives based on their professional achievements: an advanced certificate comes with a $3,000 stipend, a lead certificate offers $5,000, and a master certificate provides $10,000. School districts can designate up to 10% of their teachers for these certificates using a local evaluation system that includes teacher observations, out-of-classroom professional development time, and student performance measures. Teachers in schools with high percentages of economically disadvantaged students or in small districts may receive additional one-time awards. The stipends will be funded through lottery funds and distributed via the Teacher Empowerment Revolving Fund, and importantly, these stipends will not be included in base salary calculations for retirement or minimum salary schedule purposes. The bill aims to provide financial recognition for high-performing teachers while giving school districts flexibility in identifying and supporting exceptional educators. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause to ensure immediate implementation.

Budget and Finance, Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb554&Session=2600