Governor Sonny Perdue's plan to attract more math and science teachers to the state passed the Senate Thursday with flying colors.
Georgia has a critical shortage of teachers in math and science. One estimate says 1,800 are needed by next year.
That's why the governor wants to pay new math and science teachers at the same rate as fourth-year educators for grades six and up. And elementary teachers certified in either field would get a $1,000 bonus as well.
Perdue hopes the incentive drives more educators to the state.
Teachers already working in schools would get the same benefits.
But eligible teachers would have to meet performance standards to keep the extra cash.
Because the Senate made minor changes, the bill now heads back to the House.
Georgia has a critical shortage of teachers in math and science. One estimate says 1,800 are needed by next year.
That's why the governor wants to pay new math and science teachers at the same rate as fourth-year educators for grades six and up. And elementary teachers certified in either field would get a $1,000 bonus as well.
Perdue hopes the incentive drives more educators to the state.
Teachers already working in schools would get the same benefits.
But eligible teachers would have to meet performance standards to keep the extra cash.
Because the Senate made minor changes, the bill now heads back to the House.
