TX SB26

Adds a fourth teacher designation tier ("acknowledged") to the existing master, exemplary, and recognized categories, with corresponding state funding allotments of $3,000 base (up to $9,000 with high-needs multiplier)

Increases Teacher Incentive Allotment funding amounts: master teachers from $12,000-$32,000 to $12,000-$36,000; exemplary from $6,000-$18,000 to $9,000-$25,000; recognized from $3,000-$9,000 to $5,000-$15,000

Creates a new Teacher Retention Allotment providing $2,500-$5,000 for teachers with 3-5 years experience and $5,500-$10,000 for those with 5+ years, with higher amounts for districts under 5,000 students

Requires the Texas Education Agency to contract with a third party to provide classroom teachers with liability insurance and assistance understanding their rights, duties, and benefits

Establishes "enhanced teacher incentive allotment schools" designation for districts implementing comprehensive evaluation systems with performance-based compensation for principals and teachers, providing a 10% funding increase

Expands prekindergarten eligibility to include children of classroom teachers employed in the school district offering the program