The "Save Our Teachers Act" seeks to significantly improve the compensation for instructional personnel and school administrators in Florida by amending section 1011.62 of the Florida Statutes. The bill proposes to raise the minimum base salary for full-time classroom teachers from $47,500 to $65,000 and requires school districts and charter schools to create plans addressing salary compression, including annual cost-of-living adjustments and longevity pay for experienced teachers. Additionally, it mandates that school districts report their salary expenditures and submit salary distribution plans to the Department of Education. The bill also amends section 1012.22 to establish a performance salary schedule that includes step-based salary increases and compression relief supplements, ensuring fairness and livable wages while considering local economic conditions.

House Bill 335 further enhances salary structures by introducing performance-based salary adjustments for employees rated as effective or highly effective, with specific percentage increases tied to performance ratings. It also outlines salary supplements for assignments in Title I schools and critical teacher shortage areas, as well as new roles eligible for additional compensation. To address salary compression, the bill introduces relief supplements for experienced personnel and retention incentives based on years of service. Importantly, it ensures that any budget constraints affecting salary schedules do not disproportionately impact the performance salary schedule. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and emphasizes the importance of representation in salary discussions by requiring the president of the collective bargaining unit to participate in updates to the state board alongside the district superintendent.

Statutes affected:
H 335 Filed: 1011.62