(Des Moines, IA) — A bill aimed at aiding the Perry Community School District after a tragic shooting incident has advanced in the Iowa Senate. Following January’s shooting, the district faced challenges in retaining staff. The proposed legislation would permit the district to offer retention bonuses to teachers who commit to returning next year. Republican Senator Chris Cournoyer stated that these bonuses would provide financial support to teachers, with half paid upfront and the remainder at the end of the school year. The bill also includes waivers for specific state requirements, such as standardized testing and instructional hours.
The January 4 shooting claimed the lives of 11-year-old Ahmir Jolliff and High School Principal Dan Marburger. Six others suffered injuries.
