ESE Critical Shortage Bonus

ESE Recruitment Incentive Agreement
2025–2026 School Year

The following recruitment incentive applies to applicants who accept a position in an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) role on or after October 8, 2025, for the 2025–2026 school year. A total of ten (10) bonuses will be awarded to eligible individuals who meet the criteria outlined below.

Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

  • Submit a completed Recruitment Incentive Application on or before December 12, 2025 (incentive expiration date).

  • Have received a job offer from The School District of Lee County for FY26 on or after October 8, 2025.

  • Be approved for employment by the HR Operations team and meet all hiring requirements for an ESE instructional position for the 2025–2026 school year.

  • Hold a valid ESE K–12 certification at the time of hire.

All terms of employment are governed by the current TALC Contract.

Additional Terms:

  • full commitment through the end of the 2025–2026 school year (FY26) is required to retain the incentive.

  • Voluntary resignation or termination of employment before the end of FY26 will require repayment of any incentive funds received.

  • Some ESE roles may require dual certification. By accepting an ESE position, the employee agrees to obtain any additional certifications required for the role.

Important Notes:

  • Incentive eligibility and award distribution will be determined by Human Resources.

  • Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all available bonuses have been distributed.

  • Offers of employment made before October 8, 2025, are not eligible for this incentive.

  • There is no right to administrative appeal or grievance concerning recruitment incentive decisions.

Access this link to apply for the incentive - https://forms.gle/25n41K4oAVQuxsLS9

ESE Critical Shortage Recruitment Flyer