Teachers’ pay plays a significant role in the education of young people. In recent years, people on both sides of the aisle have raised issues about how poorly many teachers are paid, especially in comparison to other professions.
Coronavirus shutdowns have highlighted the necessity of teachers’ pay in the United States. As uncertainty about returns to schools, approved manners of teaching, etc., arises, many of our nation’s educators have some very real and pressing concerns.
However, teachers in Florida can rejoice because they’ve finally caught a break, reports Fox News. Yesterday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law legislation that now takes the Sunshine State to the fifth ranking in minimum salary for teachers.
Reviewing Legislation Signed by Governor DeSantis
The bill signed by the Florida governor on Wednesday ensures that an extra $500 million dollars goes towards payment for Florida teachers.
In addition to taking Florida from #26 to #5 on the list of minimum teachers’ pay, DeSantis is also hoping that his legislation will draw more individuals into the teaching profession.
Today, I signed HB 641 and announced the approval of $500 million dedicated to raising teacher salaries in Florida. This historic initiative puts Florida among the top five states in the nation for minimum teacher pay. See more here – https://t.co/xe7kL07c2k pic.twitter.com/H3JxyUllPB
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) June 24, 2020
At this time, the starting salary for teachers in the Sunshine State will be no less than $47,500. The National Education Association also reports that $100 million of the $500 million shall go towards established teachers who earn more than base salary.
Under DeSantis’ legislation, Florida school districts are legally prohibited from paying any teacher less than a minimum of $47,500. It’s also important to note that July 1, 2020 marks the starting date for this bill.
More Remarks from the Florida Governor
Gov. DeSantis announced the new bill at Hialeah Gardens’ Master Academy yesterday. During this time, the Florida governor praised the work and service of teachers. He noted that while teachers won’t become wealthy from their chosen profession, their “servant’s [hearts]” are what counts.
WATCH LIVE: Governor Ron DeSantis Makes a Major Announcement in Hialeah Gardens https://t.co/akI1jozNOy
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) June 24, 2020
Likewise, DeSantis acknowledged the tough times faced by many teachers amid coronavirus. Stating that virtual teaching served as “not an easy transition,” the Florida governor professed that teachers in the state did some of the best jobs.
Within Florida’s 2020 budget is the full pay increase for state teachers. This comes in spite of the impact that coronavirus had on Florida’s overall economic position. However, the Sunshine State is still in a phased reopening and striving to re-engage its economy.
What do you think about the legislation signed by Gov. DeSantis? Do you believe a pay increase for teachers will ripple out into the education system? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
