Bill Regarding Raises for Some Indiana Teachers Passes House

STATE HOUSE–A bill passed Tuesday by the Indiana House, and which is likely to become law, makes it easier for teachers who are considered “high-need” to get salary increases from their districts, based on that need.

The bill, which passed the Senate in February, passed on a 65 to 29 vote.

During debate some Democratic representatives expressed the problems they have with the bill, mostly involving fairness for teachers who would not be eligible.

“So, why would we want to pit teachers against each other? Why under this bill is a chemistry teacher worth more than a second grade teacher,” asked Rep. Tonya Pfaff, of Terre Haute. “All teachers are high-need teachers because they educate children.”

Along the same lines, Rep. Sheila Klinker of Lafayette said she would rather see a bill that considers all teachers for higher standard base pay.

“I’d rather have the House and the Senate vote for an amendment for $60,000 for a bottom line teacher because we have many teachers leaving the profession,” she said.

Rep. Vernon G. Smith, of Gary, complained that others make more than he does coming out of college in other professions like business. Smith works for Indiana University and said he’s been close to retirement but cannot go through with it because of financial reasons.