Frisco ISD gains approval for expanded teacher incentive allotment

Frisco Independent School District (FISD) has received approval from the Texas Education Agency for its Phase 2 application under the Teacher Incentive Allotment program. This approval will allow more than 700 additional teachers within the district to benefit from a state stipend ranging between $3,200 and $12,700.

The initial phase of this initiative was approved last spring, resulting in over 200 educators receiving stipends. While Phase 1 concentrated on core subjects evaluated through STAAR assessments, Phase 2 extends the reach to educators in courses not tested with STAAR as well as those involved in career and technology education and fine arts. This approach distinguishes Frisco ISD from other districts.

Efforts to secure this funding began in 2019, aiming to offer a pathway for teachers to earn higher salaries. The stipends serve as an incentive to attract and retain effective educators while encouraging teaching at challenging campuses.

Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip expressed his satisfaction with the expansion: “This expansion of our TIA program recognizes even more of Frisco ISD’s hard-working educators, putting cash in their pockets,” he said. “We couldn’t be prouder of their dedication. This is just the beginning as we hope to recognize more of our outstanding teachers in the years to come.”

Teachers must be identified as top performers according to standards set by the TEA to receive a designation under this program. There are three levels of designation: Recognized, Exemplary, and Master, with stipend amounts varying based on these levels and five additional indicators.

Data capture for Phase 3 courses is currently underway, with approval results expected in spring 2026.