How HB 6 will affect teacher pay

GEORGETOWN, Ky. (WTVQ) — Scott County Superintendent Billy Parker presented several facts about the budget in House Bill 6 to other superintendents from across the commonwealth.

He says that while there is an increase in the overall education department, the two-year budget will not sustain the teacher pay school employees want.

“We want them to maintain that commitment to the teacher pension system, but we also encourage them to explore other ways for more recurring raises,” Parker said.

Parker explains how the three different funds within the budget are expected to pan out.

“You see a decrease overall in the SEEK allotment, you see a decrease overall in the Tier One, you do see an increase in the transportation,” he said.

He continues by adding that while transportation funding is necessary, the SEEK allotment and Tier One funding provides the basic foundation for equalized funding to schools across the Commonwealth.

Jessamine County Superintendent Matt Moore says the budget has been a complicated topic.

“I do think this is a great opportunity for the senate to really dig a little bit deeper into the budget and truly appreciate what opportunities might exist to make adjustments upwards so that we really can compensate our teachers and all of our staff in the ways that they deserve,” Moore said.

Parker ended his presentation by saying education is the vehicle of hope and opportunity. He hopes legislation will hear them out and make the changes necessary to create a strong foundation of funding for school staff.