The Plymouth School Board was open to giving stipends to teachers who are teaching AP (Advanced Placement) or Dual Credit classes; however, the exact wording of how they will be awarded is expected to be on the July Board agenda.
At the June 7 meeting, Superintendent Daniel Tyree presented the proposal of stipends being given at the rate of $2-thousand per year. Tyree indicated that the proposal was discussed with the local Plymouth Education Association (PEA) and the amount seemed satisfactory at January, 2016 meetings. Tyree explained that the stipends are not part of a negotiation process with PEA, but rather could be discussed.
PEA President, Laura Kruyer shared some areas that she feels should be considered. Kruyer said, “Look at it from people who have to go and get additional schooling verses teachers who don’t.” She was referring to a ruling made two years ago by the Indiana General Assembly allowing salary increases for teachers teaching AP and Dual Credit classes. Stipulation for increases requires teachers overseeing dual credit classes to possess a Master’s Degree and undergo 18 Hours of graduate casework in that subject by 2020.
Those teaching AP classes would not have to meet the same requirements. Students must pass a test at the end of an AP class to receive credit.
Kruyer said, “ Look at it from ‘okay what if we do offer this to high school and we don’t give elementary, or intermediate, or junior high teachers an opportunity to increase their salaries as well with extra degrees.”
Tyree said, “There will be 66 graduates wearing IVY Tech cords when they graduate Friday night.” He added, “And that means they’ve had at least 15 hours of IVY Tech Dual Credit credits.”
According to Tyree, there are currently 25 teachers that would be eligible for the proposed stipend until changes take effect in 2020.
Carol Anders Correspondent
