Strategic Compensation Pilot Program Rewards Educators for Driving Student Growth

The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) is celebrating measurable progress in classrooms across the state through its Strategic Compensation Pilot Program, an initiative that rewards teachers for student achievement and growth.

Launched earlier this year, the pilot program ties performance-based bonuses directly to improvements in student learning. Participating schools selected from one of three models to measure growth — state or end-of-course assessments, interim assessments, or district-designed plans. The approach represents a modern shift in recognizing and rewarding teacher effectiveness.

A Data-Driven Investment in Teachers

During the program’s first year, awards were distributed to educators whose instruction directly impacted student outcomes in measurable, meaningful ways.

By the Numbers:

• More than $2.5 million in total awards

• Over 400 teachers recognized across 37 schools statewide

• Average individual award of $6,300

• Additional $5 million secured for the 2025–26 school year

• Three eligible growth models:

  • State or End-of-Course assessment growth

  • Interim assessment growth

  • District-designed plans

“This Strategic Compensation pilot is a small—but concrete—part of our larger plan to recognize the hard work our educators invest in their students every single day,” said State Superintendent Ellen Weaver. “Behind every data point is a teacher who refused to give up on a student’s potential. When that kind of dedication closes learning gaps and catapults students forward, it deserves to be celebrated and rewarded.”

The initiative builds on the success of the Excellence in Teaching Awards, launched in 2021 by Ben and Kelly Navarro, founders of Meeting Street Schools. The pilot program expands that concept statewide, connecting teacher pay to classroom impact and supporting recruitment and retention across diverse districts.

Looking Ahead

Encouraged by the strong results, Superintendent Weaver announced plans to expand the program in the upcoming school year, making more schools and educators eligible to participate as part of the department’s broader strategy to strengthen South Carolina’s teacher workforce.

Weaver also confirmed she will request continued state funding to sustain the program in future years.

“This program represents our belief that great teaching changes lives,” Weaver said. “We’re investing in the people who make that change possible—our teachers.”