The Hendry County school board unanimously approved a collective bargaining agreement that will give $2,000 retention bonuses to teachers hired before June.

Newer hires will get $1,000.

Funds come in part from the state to address the critical shortage of teachers.

Superintendent Michael Swindle praised the district’s ability to match the funds and provide bonuses.

"The fact that we're able to do this for our group is phenomenal, and again, it shows that we are trying to put our resources where you know is best invested, which is back in the humans that help our district, you know, be successful," Swindle said.

The bonuses will be provided in October.

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