Paths to Independence

PROJECT PURPOSE

$76,400 for one-time teacher premium pay for June 1, 2020 through December 1, 2021 to retain valued employees now experienced in the prevention and spread of COVID and other illnesses.

EVIDENCE

Our staff members were on the front lines of the battle against COVID-19 in our community. In spite of daily obstacles, they continued to provide an education for students who can be challenging in the best of times. At risk to their own health, these workers, who are essential to our operations, were dedicated to teaching students when they were able to attend school in person. In addition to logistical challenges, our teachers often have to help students take care of personal needs, which was an additional challenge and risk during worst of the COVID crisis.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

PTI serves children and adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Students with autism often do not adapt easily to change. When polled, 70% of PTI?s parents reported a loss of their child?s academic progress due to the COVID shut-downs and lack of in-person instruction. 78% identified a negative impact on social development, 74% on emotional development, and 67% on mental health. Many of our students are still catching up from social, emotional, and academic losses incurred during the worst parts of the pandemic. We would like to reward and retain our staff for dealing with these challenges. Note: All of our employees, including the executive director, have an income such that premium pay would not increase their total pay above 150% of the greater of the state or county annual wage, as mentioned in ARPA regulations.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Input and feedback from staff, teachers, students, parents, and community partners will be encouraged at every stage of the process .

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma