Student achievement in Lee County is not just a goal, it is a requirement. The School District of Lee County is once again making an aggressive, deliberate investment in the teachers who deliver results in the critical subjects that define student achievement. Investing in the classroom. Quality teachers. Higher achievement. That is the standard, and Lee County is investing to meet it.
The teacher incentives implemented last year successfully recruited and retained teachers in our most critical classrooms, and resulted in higher test scores and better attendance. Now, the district is ready to build on that momentum. At the direction of the Superintendent and a six-to-one vote of the Board, the School District is now authorized to pay up to $10,000 in additional incentive pay for teachers in critical need subjects during the 2026-2027 school year. The 2026-2027 program also expands incentive eligibility to teachers in every school with varying amounts based upon its risk level. This represents an estimated $18 million in teacher compensation.
Critical subjects involve state-mandated testing every year in grades 3-10 and play a direct role in measuring student achievement. Complementary subjects are also included because they build a direct foundation for all of our tested areas. Please see the list below.
“Our goal is to make Lee County an A-rated school district, and that starts with asking our teachers to go where students need them the most. These incentives are essential in retaining the teachers who take on the most challenging and critical roles in our schools. Thanks to the leadership of Governor DeSantis and the Legislature, we have the tools to make that happen” said Superintendent Dr. Denise Carlin. “We will continue advocating to do what is right for our students, regardless of the pushback from the teachers union leadership.”
These incentives are effective July 1 and will be paid in addition to base salary. To receive the full incentive pay available to them, teachers must meet all eligibility requirements before the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
Schools by Academic Risk Level are listed here.
