Texas Senate Bill SB216

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the salary paid to classroom teachers employed by public schools.

Impact

The implications of SB216 are significant, as it not only modifies existing salary structures for classroom teachers but also impacts how school districts are funded. The adjustments stipulated in the bill mean that school districts, even those lacking eligibility for state aid, will receive funding based on a multiplication of the number of classroom teachers they employ, thereby incentivizing them to retain and support their teaching staff. This approach aims to create a more equitable landscape for teacher compensation amid rising educational costs and living expenses.

Summary

Senate Bill 216 aims to amend the Education Code in Texas regarding the salaries paid to classroom teachers employed by public schools. Specifically, the bill establishes a requirement for classroom teachers to receive a salary that is at least equal to a predetermined amount for the 2017-2018 school year. This includes the monthly salary a teacher would have received under the district's salary schedule for the previous school year, along with an additional $400. The provisions intend to provide a minimum baseline of income for teachers, thereby ensuring they are compensated fairly for their work in public education.

Contention

During discussions surrounding the passage of SB216, notable points of contention involved the adequacy of the proposed salary increments and the sufficiency of state funding to support these changes. Critics argued that merely adjusting teacher salaries without addressing underlying funding issues could lead to challenges in maintaining a stable financial base for public education. Additionally, there were concerns about the enforcement of the new salary minima and the potential burden it could place on certain school districts, particularly those already struggling with budget constraints.