Bill > SB1363

This bill establishes a comprehensive new minimum salary schedule for teachers in Oklahoma public schools beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, providing a graduated pay scale based on education level (ranging from bachelor's to doctoral degrees) and years of experience. The bill introduces several key compensation enhancements, including a 5% additional salary for teachers in "hard-to-fill" positions (defined as schools with high vacancy rates or teaching critical shortage subjects), and one-time stipends for teachers certified in high-need areas like science, technology, engineering, mathematics, bilingual education, and special education. Teachers who obtain additional professional endorsements will be eligible for a $1,000 stipend and a 3% salary increase. The legislation also standardizes how teaching experience is recognized, including accepting credits from out-of-state and international schools, limiting military service and out-of-country experience credits to five years, and ensuring specific categories of educators (such as correctional teachers and rehabilitation services teachers) receive equivalent salary increases. The bill mandates that the State Department of Education report annually on hard-to-fill positions and requires school districts to provide written notification to teachers about any potential salary adjustments involving retirement benefits. The new salary schedule will take effect on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation to address critical educational workforce needs.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1363&Session=2600