Hawaii Senate Bill SCR142

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24
• Report Pass: 3/25/24
• Engrossed: 4/3/24
• Refer: 3/25/24
• Refer: 4/4/24
• Report Pass: 4/15/24
• Report Pass: 4/22/24
• Refer: 4/15/24
• Passed: 4/23/24

Caption

Urging The Department Of Education To Study The Impact Of Teacher Salary Step Movements On Salary Schedule Compression.

Impact

The proposed study in SCR142 aims to analyze the current salary structures for teachers and examine how salary step movements affect salary schedule compression. It acknowledges the long-standing challenges that have led to this situation and seeks to make informed policy recommendations to ensure competitive compensation for educators. The resolution underscores the urgency of addressing this issue to improve teacher satisfaction and retention, which are crucial for maintaining a stable and effective teaching workforce in Hawaii's public schools.

Summary

SCR142 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that urges the Hawaii Department of Education to conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of teacher salary step movements on salary schedule compression. The resolution highlights an important issue within Hawaii's education system where teacher salaries do not adequately reflect years of experience due to irregular step movements. This compression results in experienced teachers earning comparable salaries to their less experienced counterparts, affecting teacher retention and morale across public schools in Hawaii.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SCR142 is one of support among educators and education advocates, emphasizing the need for fair compensation that reflects teachers' experience and contributions. Many view the resolution positively, as it addresses an often-overlooked aspect of the educational workforce that directly impacts quality education. However, the discussion also indicates some concern regarding the path forward, particularly about how the findings might translate into actual policy changes and the potential for implementation.

Contention

A notable point of contention within the context of SCR142 could arise from differing perspectives on educational funding and resource allocation. While the resolution calls for a study to potentially improve salary structures, there may be concerns about the availability of funds to implement any recommendations derived from this analysis. Additionally, stakeholders such as the Hawaii State Teachers Association and the Board of Education will need to collaborate effectively to ensure that study findings are acted upon in a manner that is equitable and beneficial for all educators.