Assembly Bill 398 is poised to address the issue of teacher shortages in Title I and special education schools by providing additional monthly compensation to educators in hard-to-fill positions. This bill, sponsored by Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager, targets schools with high vacancy rates, specifically those exceeding 15% in high schools, 12% in middle schools, and 10% in elementary schools. It also includes subjects facing critical labor shortages.
The initiative aims to combat the high vacancy rates that are particularly pronounced in Title I schools, which predominantly serve low-income communities. According to the Clark County School District (CCSD), a significant portion of its current teacher vacancies are within these schools.
Previously, a stipend aimed at addressing this issue was agreed upon by the CCSD and the Clark County Education Association, offering an additional $5,000 to teachers in special education or Title I schools with vacancy rates of 5% or more. However, this stipend was limited by available funding and is set to expire soon, leaving many educators without the full benefits initially promised.
The new bill proposes funding from the State Education Fund, with estimated costs of $50,287 for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and $63,744 for 2026-2027. The bill’s proponents, including CCEA President Marie Neisess, emphasize the importance of ensuring every classroom has a qualified teacher, underscoring the role of appropriate compensation in achieving this goal. The proposed legislation is seen as a critical step in maintaining the progress made in reducing teacher vacancies and improving educational outcomes for students in these underserved areas.