Sanders Introduces CEC Sponsored Pay Teachers Act

On Thursday, Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced legislation to begin addressing teacher shortages by establishing a baseline wage to teachers of $60,000 per year. Citing the dire need for the legislation, Sanders explained, “Wages for public school teachers are so low that in 36 states, the average public school teacher with a family of four qualifies for food stamps, public housing and other government assistance programs.”

In addition to raising teacher pay, the Pay Teachers Act would also increase federal investments in other areas of public schooling that contribute to increased student learning and that lead to a robust pipeline for educators from preservice through to leadership advancements. Notably, it would provide an additional $300 million annually for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Part D Personnel Preparation, and further invest in additional programs that diversify and support the quality of the educator pipeline. The Pay Teachers Act has already gained the support of over 50 national organizations including CEC.

Read the announcement here.