"Schooled" On The Law IN Public Education

The Texas Tribune reports that as the latest special session of the Texas legislature convenes to consider a private school voucher program there is mention of addressing teacher pay raises. The news story rreports “lawmakers failed to pass legislation on public school administrators’ three biggest priorities during the regular session.” The news article adds, “Proposals to raise teacher salaries, increase the base amount schools receive per student and overhaul the public school system’s funding formula all fizzled amid a political standoff over school vouchers, which would allow families to use state funds to pay for their kids’ private schooling.”

This is an example of the diversion of taxpayer revenue from funding public education. The Texas Tribune article points out: “The basic allotment — the amount of money the state gives school for each student — was last raised in 2020 to $6,160. Public school advocates say that amount has not kept up with inflation.”

The consequence of ignoring the need to increase teacher pay is that teachers will flee a profession where they are unable to make a living wage. This stark reality demonstrates Gov. Abbot’s lack of commitment to public education.