Mississippi Senate Bill SB2780

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Assistant teachers; increase minimum salary.

Impact

The implications of SB2780 are significant for state laws pertaining to education and teacher employment. By establishing a new minimum salary of $20,000 for assistant teachers for the 2023-2024 school year, the bill seeks to attract more qualified individuals into these vital roles, thereby improving the overall quality of instruction in the early grades. Furthermore, it is intended to reduce the teacher-student ratio in these crucial early years, allowing for more personalized attention for students, which is critical for their development.

Summary

Senate Bill 2780 amends Section 37-21-7 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to increase the minimum salary of assistant teachers. The bill aims to enhance early childhood education by providing a structured program that assists in core skill instruction in kindergarten through third grade, thereby enriching the learning experience for young students. It mandates the state board to implement a statewide system of assistant teachers who work under the close supervision of licensed teachers, thus creating a supportive educational environment.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked discussions around funding allocations and the potential impact on local school district budgets. Some concerns arise about whether sufficient state funding will be consistently provided, as no district will receive funds if they reduce their local contributions to salaries. The requirement for school districts to create plans for reading improvement and accountability may also add administrative burdens, raising questions about the efficacy and feasibility of implementation across various districts.