LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Education Secretary Jacob Oliva announced on Tuesday afternoon that about 3,000 teachers in Arkansas will now be the recipients of the Merit Teacher Incentive Program.
The program was launched in May when Governor Sanders signed the LEARNS Act into law, and it will award selected educators with bonuses that range from $1,500 up to $10,000. Those bonuses will be made available for distribution by the end of June.
Teachers who earn these bonuses have showcased outstanding growth in student performance and have served as mentors to aspiring teachers who have participated in yearlong residencies. Some have also taught in a subject, designation, or geographical area that has experienced a critical teacher shortage.
“Great education starts with great teachers. That’s why one of my first acts as governor was to raise teacher pay across the board and reward our best educators,” said Governor Sanders. “This year’s merit bonuses will incentivize teachers to continue tackling our state’s toughest assignments and help every Arkansas student thrive.”
Secretary Oliva explained that teachers in the classroom are the ones who have the biggest impact on student learning.
"The best educators deserve recognition for their excellence, and we are proud to recognize these educators for demonstrating a commitment to learning and ensuring their students succeed in the future," he added.
For more information on the school districts where teachers received merit pay bonuses, please click here.