Retaining Effective Teachers Policy
California supports differential pay by which a teacher can earn additional compensation by teaching certain subjects. The state encourages public school employers to "provide incentives to teachers for accepting teaching assignments in areas of highest need." However, California does not state specifically which subjects one must teach to qualify or the amount of stipend or salary incentive.
California also offers a $20,000 incentive award to teachers who earn certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) and agree to teach at least 50 percent of the time in a high-needs school (Academic Index of 5 or lower) for four consecutive years. The incentive is paid in $5,000 installments over the four years.
California recognized the accuracy of this analysis. California noted that due to funding issues, no new applicants are being granted incentive funding. If/when state budget allowances change, this program will resume accepting new applicants.
NCTQ appreciates the state's candor in acknowledging the current budget limitations on differential pay. California is encouraged to support differential pay for effective teaching in high-needs subjects and schools.