This bill amends existing laws related to the Education Leadership Oklahoma program and the minimum salary schedule for teachers in Oklahoma. It updates the name of the commission overseeing the program from the "Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation" to the "Commission for Educational Quality and Accountability." The bill introduces an annual bonus of $5,000 for teachers who attain National Board certification, effective from July 1, 2026, for a duration of five years, while removing previous references to an additional salary increment for National Board certification. The bill also specifies that the bonus will be funded by state lottery funds and will not be included in salary calculations for retirement benefits or minimum salary schedules.

Additionally, the bill outlines the process for the Education Leadership Oklahoma program, including the provision of financial assistance for National Board certification costs and mentoring support for teachers. It establishes eligibility criteria for the annual bonus and clarifies that teachers who received bonuses prior to the new provisions will continue to receive them for the remaining duration of their ten-year period. The bill emphasizes the importance of recruiting teachers in high-poverty schools and ensures that all teachers seeking National Board certification receive adequate support and information. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency for its immediate implementation.