Celina ISD is exploring a state program that could provide additional funding for teacher pay based on classroom performance.

Superintendent Tom Maglisceau discussed the Teacher Incentive Allotment, or TIA, at the Board of Trustees’ Sept. 21 meeting, according to the district’s meeting recap.

Texas established TIA in 2019. Districts can develop local evaluation systems that use teacher observations and student growth to identify educators eligible for state performance designations.

Under the current TIA guidebook, designated teachers generate annual funding for their districts within four ranges:

  • Acknowledged: $3,000–$9,000
  • Recognized: $5,000–$15,000
  • Exemplary: $9,000–$25,000
  • Master: $12,000–$36,000

The amount depends on the designation and campus characteristics, with higher funding directed toward rural campuses and those serving greater student needs.

Districts must spend at least 90% of each allotment on teacher compensation at the campus where the designated teacher works. The remaining funds can support program implementation or teachers working toward designations. The allotment does not necessarily become an equivalent raise for one teacher; districts establish their compensation plans.

There is no statewide cap on the number of teachers who can earn designations or on total TIA funding.

Establishing a local designation system generally requires a three-year approval process. Districts first develop and submit their system, then collect teacher performance data during a data-capture year. Texas Tech University validates the submitted results, and the Texas Education Agency reviews the system before approving designations.

Celina’s exploration does not yet establish when its teachers could receive new designations or how the district would distribute additional compensation.

The program has expanded across Texas. In a June 11 announcement, Gov. Greg Abbott said more than $750 million had been awarded to more than 65,000 teachers across 809 school systems during 2025–26.

Celina’s discussions follow an existing districtwide pay increase. In May, trustees approved a 4% raise for all employees, according to a district announcement. The district also reported contributing $410 per month toward employee insurance.

The next Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 26, at 6 p.m. at Moore Middle School.