St. Joseph School Board discusses potential changes to Career Ladder Program  

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph School Board of Education met for a special work session to discuss several agenda items, including possible changes to the district’s Career Ladder program. 

District leaders talked through this proposal which would eliminate stage one of the program and reduce the maximum stipend teachers can receive.  

The plan would also simplify the Career Ladder structure from three levels to two and lower the top annual stipend from $5,000 to $3,000. 

The Career Ladder Grant program is available to all public schools in Missouri, though participation is optional and depends on state funding each year. 

Assistant Superintendent of Academics Stacia Studer said the proposed changes are meant to improve consistency within the program and help ensure its long-term sustainability.  

She added how the district still plans to support high-quality teaching, student learning, and professional growth for teachers. 

Because the discussion took place during a work session, no official votes were taken. District leaders said the proposal is being considered with both the district’s finances and long-term sustainability in mind.