Arkansas Teachers Set to Cash In on Merit Bonuses [Over 4,200 Eligible]

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — More than 4,200 Arkansas teachers will receive bonuses of up to $10,000 this year through the state’s LEARNS Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced Tuesday. The number marks a significant increase from the 3,000 educators awarded bonuses last year.

The bonuses are part of an effort under the LEARNS Act to reward high-performing educators and address teacher retention challenges in the state.

“Behind every successful student is a dedicated teacher,” Gov. Sanders said. “LEARNS not only raised starting teacher pay from $36,000 to $50,000 a year but also created the Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program to continue rewarding teachers for their hard work.”

According to the Arkansas Department of Education, the incentive program recognizes educators who have made a measurable impact on student performance, served as mentors, or taken roles in high-need subject areas.

For the 2024–2025 school year:

• Over 800 teachers will receive bonuses exceeding $5,000
• More than 70 educators will receive the full $10,000 award

Education Secretary Jacob Oliva praised the results, calling the program a success in identifying and rewarding excellent teaching.

“The increase in the number of educators receiving merit pay this year demonstrates the positive impact LEARNS has had on education in Arkansas,” Oliva said.

Several past recipients shared personal stories about the program’s impact, describing the bonuses as meaningful recognition of the long hours and dedication required in their profession.

“It showed that the hard work I put into teaching is making a difference,” said a public school teacher from Mountainburg. “It motivated me to keep trying new ways to help my students succeed.”

The LEARNS Act, passed in 2023, includes a broad set of education reforms, including increased base teacher salaries and expanded school choice.

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