Idaho Lawmakers Approve Revision to Teacher Bonuses Statute

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho lawmakers passed legislation Thursday revising the teacher bonuses statute after a troubling report revealed nearly $17 million for bonuses wasn't distributed correctly.

The new legislation raises such bonuses to $900 per employee, regardless whether the employee is full-time or part-time. It also seeks to ensure the bonuses will be distributed on merit by limiting them to teachers who take on additional responsibilities.

Lawmakers expressed frustration after learning employees in 35 districts received less than the minimum amount of $850 last year. Further, some districts distributed bonuses to all of their instructors. The 2015 report was also riddled with mathematical errors.