From the Liveblog of
Monday, February 2, 2026
Financial incentives, innovation grants announced for educators in Gaza border communities
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleSue Surkes is The Times of Israel's environment reporter
The Tekuma Directorate, set up to oversee the rehabilitation of the Gaza border area after the deadly Hamas invasion on October 7, 2023, announces a NIS 24 million ($7.74 million) budget over three years to encourage pedagogical innovation and local leadership among teaching staff.
Teachers, principals and preschool teachers will be able to apply for a monthly NIS 1,000 ($322) grant for the duration of the school year for leading an innovative pedagogical or social project authorized by the Education Ministry and the local authority.
Financial incentives will also be offered to educators willing to move to the region and commit to working there for one to three years.
A statement says that these payments are “special incentives” and are not considered part of the educator’s base salary for the purpose of calculating pensions or other social benefits.
The Times of Israel Community.