Arizona House Republicans are pushing Governor Doug Ducey for higher teacher pay in their newly proposed budget plan.
The teacher pay proposal from the Governor was widely received as far too low and unfair to teachers. Ducey proposed a 2% raise over five years. The House plan calls for a 1% raise for the coming school year with the potential for further raises in subsequent years.
The House Republican plan would cost $34 million versus Governor Ducey's proposal estimated to cost $13.6 million.
Teacher pay in Arizona has been historically low and is seen as a major factor in the statewide teacher shortage. Teachers in Arizona make about $18,000 less than the national average.
Another State House proposal budgeting for schools includes $7.3 million to the department of education for computers and technology for classrooms.
Republicans will begin budget discussions with the Senate and Governor's Office this week, and the budget takes effect July first.
