NC H1074

Increases starting salary for school psychologists to the sixth step of the "A" salary schedule plus $500 per month, with a 10% monthly salary supplement and eligibility for academic degree supplements.

Appropriates $4,000,000 in recurring General Fund dollars for the 2018-2019 fiscal year to implement school psychologist compensation increases.

Establishes the School Psychologists Recruitment and Retention Program administered by the Department of Public Instruction to provide signing and retention bonuses up to $10,000 per psychologist.

Requires school psychologists receiving bonuses to commit to 3-5 years of employment and repay funds on a prorated basis if they leave early (except for death, reduction in force, or disability).

Appropriates $750,000 in recurring funds for program implementation, including up to $100,000 for a new full-time recruitment and retention coordinator position, effective July 1, 2018.