The "Save Our Teachers Act" is a proposed bill aimed at significantly increasing the salaries of instructional personnel and school administrators in Florida. It amends section 1011.62 of the Florida Statutes to raise the minimum base salary for full-time classroom teachers from $47,500 to $65,000. The bill introduces new funding requirements to support school districts and charter schools in implementing this salary increase, including provisions for addressing salary compression, annual cost-of-living adjustments, and longevity pay for experienced teachers. Additionally, it mandates that school districts develop and submit salary distribution plans to the Department of Education, which will oversee a phased implementation starting in 2026.

The bill also amends section 1012.22 to establish requirements for school district salary structures, including step-based salary increases and compression relief supplements. It emphasizes fairness and livable wages while considering local economic factors and requires collaboration with local stakeholders to address regional disparities and improve teacher retention. Furthermore, House Bill 335 introduces salary supplements for various assignments, retention incentives based on years of service, and mandates annual audits to address salary compression issues. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 335 Filed: 1011.62