This bill amends various provisions of the Arkansas Code related to teacher incentive and merit pay, specifically focusing on eligibility requirements and evaluation processes. It introduces a new requirement that individuals must satisfy specific criteria by July 1, 2025, to qualify for funding under the yearly incentive bonuses for teachers with National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification. Additionally, the bill modifies the summative evaluation process under the Teacher Excellence and Support System, allowing for evaluations to be conducted in writing or digitally, and incorporating multiple sources of evidence, including peer observations and student feedback.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that if a public school does not conduct a summative evaluation in a given year, it must perform an annual rating that meets the requirements of the Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program. It also clarifies the definition of "annual rating" and outlines the criteria for eligibility for awards from the Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program, which now includes a requirement for public school districts to perform annual ratings based on observations and professional growth plans. The bill aims to enhance the evaluation framework and support for teachers, particularly in areas experiencing critical shortages.

Statutes affected:
HB 1939: 6-17-413, 6-17-2805(c), 6-17-2805, 6-17-2904(a)
Act 808: 6-17-413, 6-17-2805(c), 6-17-2805, 6-17-2904(a)