During its June 5 meeting, the Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education unanimously approved extending the deadline for a $4,000 hiring incentive for newly recruited educators 2023 school year.
TPS added teachers certified in special education, advanced math and science subjects, world languages, and other hard-to-fill roles are also eligible for an additional $2,000 incentive.
To receive the incentive, teachers must hold a standard teaching certificate, be new to the Tulsa district, and sign a 2023-2024 provisional contract with the district by June 30.
“A lack of teachers is crippling education in our state, but we have found ways to be more creative and competitive in recruiting. We believe a four-thousand dollar incentive for teachers with a standard certification will help attract and retain well-qualified teachers and team members," said Executive Director of Talent Management Tasha Johnson.
In April, the Board of Education approved bargaining agreements with the Tulsa Classroom Teachers Association and the American Federation of Teachers Local 6048. These bargaining agreements included pay increases for teachers and support professionals.
Johnson said the teacher shortage isn't just an Oklahoma problem, but a nationwide problem as well.
She believes it's necessary and important to offer a competitive starting salary, raises, and incentives to teachers.
“That sense of community is something we stress to prospective teachers. Because despite being the largest school district in the state, Tulsa Public Schools is a collection of community schools. Teachers get to know and form meaningful relationships with their students, the parents, and colleagues," said Johnson.
Recent changes to Oklahoma state law helped clear the way for more regional educators to relocate to Oklahoma.
Before 2020, the state of Oklahoma did not recognize out-of-state teaching certificates, which limited many out-of-state educators from obtaining teaching positions in the state.
TPS' compensation model is also used to factor in up to five years of out-of-state teaching experience, regardless of how many years someone has taught.
Currently, the district considers each year of teaching when offering a compensation package.
Johnson said TPS is eager to honor an educator's years of service.
“Recruitment incentives may catch the attention of some out-of-state teachers, but we hope experienced professionals will take a closer look after they realize the ease with which they can relocate,” she said. “Changes to the law, combined with our incentives, make Tulsa Public School an attractive option when considering returning to the profession, relocating or making a career change. We truly hope teachers across Oklahoma and the region consider joining our team at Tulsa Public Schools.”
In order to qualify for the TPS recruitment incentives, educators must meet the following requirements:
- Pass background checks and candidate screening
- Accept a teaching job and sign a temporary contract for the 23-24 school year
- Sign a contract with the district by June 30, 2023
- Hold a standard teaching certificate