Assistant teachers; provide annual salary supplement in C, D and F school districts.
Impact
The bill stipulates that assistant teachers must have at least a high school diploma and demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing. School districts are required to employ the total number of assistant teachers funded and ensure that these professionals are assigned effectively to promote the maximum efficiency in instructional delivery. Additionally, those districts that fall under the specified ratings will see salary supplements of $1,500 for each assistant teacher, creating a financial incentive to improve educational outcomes in underperforming schools.
Summary
House Bill 289 aims to amend Section 37-21-7 of the Mississippi Code to provide an annual salary supplement to assistant teachers employed by school districts rated C, D, or F under the state accountability system. This bill is positioned as part of the Mississippi Elementary Schools Assistant Teacher Program, which is focused on enhancing early childhood education through the support of assistant teachers in the classroom. The legislation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a manageable teacher-student ratio in grades K-3 by ensuring that funding is adequately allocated for employing assistant teachers.
Contention
Debate surrounding HB 289 may focus on its implications for local school district autonomy and accountability. While proponents may argue that providing salary supplements can lead to improved educational quality in lower-rated districts, critics might question the sustainability of such funding and the potential strain it could place on state resources. Furthermore, the bill does not allow districts to use funds intended for assistant teachers to hire licensed teachers unless it can be shown that this would effectively reduce the teacher-student ratio, which could spark discussions on equitable distribution of educational resources and prioritization of employment strategies.