Signing bonus for new special education teachers in Sioux Falls appears to be working

SIOUX FALLS, S.D.(KELO)- Some veteran teachers are upset, but a signing bonus for new teachers seems to be working.

The Sioux Falls School District is offering bonuses of up to 10-thousand dollars for new teachers signing on for Special Education duties.

Veteran Special Ed teachers spoke against the bonuses, but District Human Resources Director Becky Dorman says they’re attracting new applicants.

Dorman says overall, the district is ahead of last year’s pace in hiring teachers for the fall term.

They’ve taken some heat for offering large bonuses.

Veteran special ed teachers were critical, saying they were left out and felt devalued.

District Human Resources Director Becky Dorman says it was a tough call.

Dorman says the bonuses have made a big difference.

Dorman says the District still has about ten Special Ed positions open.

They’re also working to hire Education Assistants and substitute teachers for the fall term.