Louisiana(KADN)- Despite the fact that Governor Edwards and teachers have called on legislators to approve a pay hike, the House advanced a budget plan that did not include a $2,000-a-year pay raise for teachers.
"I have always been a component of early childhood and teacher pay," expressed Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.
Nungesser believes to retain teachers, long-term commitments need to be made. "To teachers and to education and not make it a political football every election year or every three of four years. Teachers stay to educate our kids. It's one of the most important things we can do.
Teachers' salaries in Louisiana are one of the lowest in the country.
In fact, they make $3,000 less than the Southern average.
Nungesser says we should look at how other states keep their teachers. "When you look at other states that have committed to fixing their education system, they'' commit to a nine-year plan. Teachers see light at the end of the tunnel that they will finally get that fair pay."
At the same time, the Don't Say Gay bill is one closer to becoming law.
The legislation prohibits school employees from teaching sexual orientation or gender identity in the classroom.
"Goes against everything Louisiana residents hold near and dear to their heart," says Vice President of Acadiana Queer Collective Wendy Dorfman.
Dorfman says if it becomes law, mental health issues could increase as students often see teachers as allies. "Some students don't have that support at home and school becomes their safe space. If that gets taken away I worry about where young kids are going to get the help they need."
Dorfman emphasizes students need allies more than ever. "We right now need to always be working together. It's a time to come together rather than vet us against each other."
The legislation's next stop is a hearing before the Senate education committee.
