Section 6-17-2904 - Teacher eligibility(a) Eligibility for an award from the Merit Teacher Incentive Fund Program shall include without limitation: (1)(A) A teacher who demonstrates outstanding growth in student performance, as determined by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education.(B)(i) In determining whether a teacher has demonstrated outstanding growth in student performance, the division shall calculate a value-added growth model score for grades and subjects, where possible.(ii) The division shall develop rules to establish the process and procedure for public school districts to annually report data related to value-added models that includes without limitation: (a) Student test scores; and(b) Prior student performance by subject and school;(2) Teachers serving as mentors to aspiring teachers;(3) Aspiring teachers participating in yearlong residencies;(4) Teachers instructing in subject areas or geographical areas identified as experiencing a critical shortage of teachers, including public schools that have historically been understaffed, as determined by the division; and(5) Other categories as defined by the state board.(b) In determining distribution of funds to a teacher under this section, the division shall consider factors that include without limitation:(1) The poverty level of the school as factored under § 6-17-413; and(2) The designated performance rating of the school under the school rating system, § 6-15-2101 et seq.(c) A teacher who is given intensive support status under the Teacher Excellence and Support System, § 6-17-2801 et seq., is ineligible for receipt of funds under the program for the school year.Added by Act 2023, No. 237,§ 37, eff. 3/8/2023.