SEFFNER, Fla. — As this school year kicks off, some teachers in Hillsborough County can look forward to a bonus that may reach $13,000.
- New bonus program luring veteran teachers to underperforming schools
- Hillsborough County schools principals, officials say program will increase school grades
- BN9 Back-to-School 2019
Experienced educators are getting the bonuses to teach at under performing schools.
Officials at McDonald Elementary in Seffner are hoping to move pays off. McDonald Principal Melanie Cochran has had trouble recruiting teachers. Cochran saw that first-hand after transferring to the D-rated school.
"I would have people who sent me the resumes and I would call to set them up for an interview," Cochran said. "And they were like nevermind you're not at the other school anymore. I don't want to be at that school. That's just disheartening."
Now, a new program called SPARK is helping lure experienced educators to high-need school, including McDonald, by using financial incentives.
"I'm so excited," said teacher Carrie Kovalovich, who came to McDonald from A-rated Bevis Elementary. "A little nervous because it's change."
Another veteran educator, Lowell Patterson, also transferred to McDonald this year.
"Believe me, I have questioned this in my own head," he said. "What am I really getting myself into, am I ready for this, did I make the right decision and the answer is yes, of course I did."
Last year, McDonald started with 13 teacher vacancies. This year, they have none.
And while it helped to get a financial bonus, some of the teachers said they have worked with Cochran before and they said they were looking for a new challenge and hoping to make a difference.
"I don't think the teaching is going to be an different," Kovalovich said. "It's just meeting the kids where they are when they come in."
Patterson said she feels it's important to let the kids know their teachers care.
"Every one of the kids, I want them to feel that I love them," she said. "I care for them. That I'm here to support them. I'm on their team. That I'm here for them. That's why I do this."
The district's assistant Superintendent said that is what it is going to take to boost school grades at underperforming schools.
"If all of this works as planned, by the end of the shcool year all of the schools will be A, B and C rated schools," said Assistant Superintendent Tricia McManus. "That is the ultimate goal."
McDonald did make progress during the school year last year and the school is now just three points from being "C" rated.
Cochran said the influx of veteran teachers will make a difference and help students excel.