This bill introduces a new section to chapter 15.1-09 of the North Dakota Century Code, granting school boards the authority to offer a first-year signing bonus to newly hired teachers. The eligibility criteria for receiving this bonus include being licensed or approved by the education standards and practices board, signing a contract of employment with the district, and not having been a classroom teacher in the state during the previous school year. The bill specifies that the bonus is in addition to any amounts payable under a negotiated teachers' contract, and it cannot be included in the district's negotiated salary schedule or counted as salary for continuing contract purposes.

Additionally, the bill amends section 15-20.2-07 of the North Dakota Century Code to allow center boards to offer a similar first-year signing bonus under the same conditions as those outlined for school districts. This includes the stipulation that the bonus is also in addition to any negotiated contract amounts and cannot be included in the center board's salary schedule or for continuing contract purposes. The bill is declared an emergency measure, indicating its immediate importance for implementation.

Statutes affected:
Adopted by the House Education Committee: 15-20.2-07
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15-20.2-07