UT SB0085

SB 85 - Excellence in Education and Leadership Supplement Modifications

• Creates a "self-nomination pathway" allowing teachers in non-participating LEAs to apply directly for performance-based awards if they teach state-assessed subjects, score in the top 40% on value-added growth models, and have no pending license actions

• Performance-based awards remain tiered at $10,000 (top 5% of teachers), $5,000 (next 6%-10%), and $2,000 (next 11%-25%), with awards doubled for teachers at high-poverty schools

• Increases the Center for the School of the Future's allocation from 4.25% to 5.05% of program funds to administer the expanded eligibility process

• Establishes specific deadlines for the self-nomination pathway: teacher intent to apply by February 15, 2027; applications due April 15, 2027; awards disbursed beginning July 15, 2027

• Extends the deadline for determining eligible teachers from October 1, 2026 to December 1, 2026; bill takes effect May 6, 2026