More than 42,000 Texas teachers were awarded over $481 million in merit pay for the 2024-25 school year through the state’s Teacher Incentive Allotment program, which has helped improve teacher retention by nearly 10 percent.
The allotment aims to recognize and retain highly effective educators by offering significant bonuses based on classroom performance and student growth.
READ MORE: Houston ISD will pay teachers based on their performance. Here’s how that will be determined
Governor Greg Abbott said teachers are important to the success of students and the whole state.
“With this over $481 million in merit pay, Texas is awarding thousands of teachers from every corner of our state with the pay raise they deserve—putting them on a path to earning a six-figure salary,“ said Governor Abbott. “And soon, Texas will invest even more in teachers, providing permanent pay raises for experienced classroom teachers. With empowered parents, exemplary teachers, and exceptional academics, Texas is on a path to be No. 1 in educating our children.”
Since 2019, the Teacher Incentive Allotment has awarded over $1 billion to teachers based on performance. Designations are based on evaluations and student outcomes.
Historically, TIA designations fell into three groups: Recognized, Exemplary, and Master. Under House Bill 2, a new designation band called Acknowledged will be established, making more teachers eligible for the allotment. The legislation will also increase the allotment amount for Recognized, Exemplary, and Master designations.
READ MORE: Houston ISD raises minimum salaries for Special Education teachers
For more information and a list of participating districts, visit the Teacher Incentive Allotment website.