SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5183

As of February 21, 2003

Title: An act relating to first year teachers' salaries.

Brief Description: Providing a bonus for certain first year teachers.

Sponsors: Senators Benton, Stevens and Eide.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Education: 2/26/03.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff: Susan Mielke (786-7422)

Background: The Legislature provides funding for teachers and other certificated staff salaries based on the state salary allocation schedule, which uses education and years of experience to determine the amount allocated. School districts have the authority to establish the actual salaries paid to staff, subject to local collective bargaining and within certain limits set by the Legislature.

Local school districts may use local dollars to provide supplemental contracts to teachers for additional time, responsibilities, and incentives.

Summary of Bill: Beginning math and science teachers who graduated from a college or university with a 3.5 grade point average receive a $5,000 bonus, awarded over four years: $2,000 in the first year and $1,000 in each of the second, third, and fourth years of teaching.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.