The Pay Teachers Act would set salary requirements for public school teachers and school support staff. States receiving certain federal education funds would have to ensure full-time teachers earn at least a state-set minimum, with a starting salary of at least $60,000 from fiscal years 2026 through 2030. Pay would rise with experience and be competitive with that of experienced, college-educated professionals in the region. States could seek more time if they meet specific conditions.
The bill would also set minimum pay benchmarks for paraprofessionals and education support staff: $45,000 a year for full-time staff or $30 an hour for part-time staff from fiscal years 2026 through 2030. It would provide grants for staff pay, teacher career ladders, classroom supplies, educator training, and school funding. States would also report on teacher pay, teacher qualifications, and school spending. The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to committee; it has not become law.
If enacted, the bill would require states and school districts receiving covered federal funds to meet salary rules and report on pay and staffing. Teachers could have access to career advancement grants and classroom awards. School support staff could benefit from grants to help raise their pay. The bill does not guarantee a particular raise for any individual worker; state plans and grant programs would shape how the requirements are carried out.
The bill provides fiscal year 2026 funding for several education programs, including $36.8 billion for Title I, $440 million for rural education, $1.474 billion for Impact Aid, and $1.131 billion for Bureau of Indian Education schools. It also provides $25 billion for paraprofessional and education support staff pay grants in fiscal year 2026, with amounts adjusted for inflation in later years. Other specified fiscal year 2026 amounts include $550 million for teacher partnerships and Grow Your Own programs, $150 million for educator preparation centers, $300 million for personnel development related to students with disabilities, $100 million for educator development, and $200 million for teacher and school leader incentives. Some grant funding is set at amounts needed or at sums necessary, rather than a fixed amount. States receiving certain grants would have to provide matching funds.
The bill's stated purpose is to provide teachers with livable, competitive pay and a starting salary of at least $60,000, raise pay for school support staff, increase investment in public schools, and strengthen teacher preparation and career opportunities. Its findings say these steps are intended to help address teacher shortages and improve students' access to qualified teachers.
No publicly available information.