Arkansas educators to receive up to $10,000 in merit bonuses

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Officials announced Tuesday that more than 4,200 Arkansas educators will receive merit bonuses.

The bonus will be up to $10,000 through the state’s LEARNS Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program.

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders said the program was designed to reward excellent teachers.

“The increase in the number of educators receiving merit pay this year demonstrates the positive impact LEARNS has had on education in Arkansas,” said Jacob Oliva, Arkansas Department of Education secretary. “Through the Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program, educators are rewarded for having a significant impact on student learning, their schools, and their communities. We congratulate them and look forward to recognizing others in the future.”

Eligible recipients include classroom teachers, library media specialists and school counselors, with an average bonus of $3,300. Over 800 will receive more than $5,000, and more than 70 will receive the full $10,000.

School district superintendents verified eligibility of the teachers, and the department will distribute payments and fringe benefits to districts by June 30, a spokesperson announced.