To address the persistent challenge of recruiting and retaining highly qualified STEM educators, Meeting Street Schools will implement an annual bonus for all middle school classroom teachers assigned to STEM classrooms effective July 1, 2026.
Program Details
- Bonus amount: $15,000 per year, prorated for any eligible mid-year moves.
- Eligibility: All staff serving as the lead science or math teacher in a designated STEM classroom (as defined by the academic schedule and school leadership).
- Payment structure: Bonus paid out in equal increments through bi-weekly paychecks throughout the school year (following the grade-level chair pay structure).
- Duration: Staff are eligible to receive the bonus for three years or a total of $45,000
Anticipated Outcomes
- Increased Recruitment: Competitive compensation will attract STEM candidates to consider teaching, as well as incentivize humanities majors to accept a STEM placement.
- Improved Retention: Current STEM educators will have a financial incentive to remain in these roles for the long term.
- Stronger Instruction: By filling classrooms with teachers better prepared for STEM content, student outcomes will improve.
