House Passes Deevers-Hasenbeck Bill to Establish High Dosage Tutoring, Incentive Bonuses for Teachers

OKLAHOMA CITY–Legislation to boost academic outcomes through high-dosage tutoring and performance-based teacher bonuses passed the House Wednesday. SB245, authored by Senator Dusty Deevers, R-Elgin, and Representative Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin, passed the Senate earlier this session.

The bill establishes a statewide tutoring program designed to help struggling students close learning gaps through small-group instruction. Participating teachers will also benefit from a merit-based bonus structure, earning $1,600 per semester per student group, plus $1,000 for each student who advances a full grade level, for a potential total of up to $8,200 per year.

“This is a win for Oklahoma students and for the dedicated teachers helping them succeed,” said Sen. Deevers. “By expanding proven tutoring methods and rewarding measurable progress, we’re equipping schools with the tools to deliver real academic growth.”

Hasenbeck underscored the significance of this initiative in raising academic achievement across the state.

“This bill is about equipping our teachers and lifting our students, especially in communities that need it most,” said Representative Hasenbeck. “We’re giving educators the support they deserve while helping students master the foundational skills they need to succeed. It’s a smart investment in both academic outcomes and teacher morale.”

The bill also provides minor amendments to the teacher stipend tiers to ensure fairness across the state and that stipends paid out do not count against retirement benefits.

SB245 now heads back to the Senate for approval of House amendments and then to the Governor's desk.

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