Rep. Bohac Files Legislation to Increase Teacher Pay and Improve Local School Funding

AUSTIN, TEXAS – Continuing his commitment to support Texas teachers and improve public schools in Texas, State Rep. Dwayne Bohac (R-Houston) has filed a robust public education package that includes a $3,000 annual pay raise for teachers; significant changes to the state’s “Robin Hood” school finance laws; funding for full-day pre-kindergarten programs; and adding school supplies and backpacks to the list of items included in the state’s annual Sales Tax Holiday.

“As the father of four school-age children, I am constantly looking for ways to improve education in Texas,” Bohac said. “The bills in this education package will strengthen the ability of schools, teachers and parents to educate our children and prepare them for academic success.”

Understanding that Texas ranks below the national average for teacher salaries, Bohac filed House Bill 2352 which calls for a $3,000 annual pay raise for teachers, counselors and librarians. “Since the beginning of my time in office, I’ve made increased teacher pay a top priority,” Bohac said. “Increasing teacher’s annual salary will allow Texas to better retain and recruit the very best educators and to reward them for their exceptionally hard work,” Bohac said.

Furthermore, Rep. Bohac and Rep. Dan Branch (R-Dallas) authored House Bill 53, which adjusts the state’s “Robin Hood” finance laws to allow more local tax dollars to remain in the local school district. This means that millions of dollars for Houston and Spring Branch independent school districts will stay in their respective districts for the classroom rather that being redistributed to other school districts.

“This change in our state’s funding formula, if passed, will ensure that revenue generated through local tax dollars stays at home to help our teachers and students,” said Bohac. “It’s ridiculous to send our tax dollars across the state when we are fighting to adequately fund our schools here at home.”

To secure funding for full-day pre-kindergarten programs, Bohac also co-authored HB 130, which would ensure that all pre-kindergarten programs have a steady and reliable source of funding. Currently, Texas funds half-day programs for participating districts, but those districts must rely on grants or local funding to pay for the remainder of the day. However, grants are not always dependable sources.

Bohac also worked with the Texas Parent Teacher Association (PTA) to draft HB 1801 which would add school supplies and backpacks to the list of items that are tax exempt during the state’s annual Sales Tax Holiday. “In these difficult economic times, it is imperative that we assist families in buying school supplies and clothing for their children,” said Texas PTA President, Jan Wilkerson. “ I applaud Rep. Bohac for filing legislation that will assist parents in readying their children for the school year.” The annual Sales Tax Holiday will take place August 21-23.

Completing the education package, Bohac authored HB 1800, which would allow the Spring Branch district to implement a pilot program creating parent, student, and teacher contracts. The contracts would clearly define the responsibilities of all stakeholders and ensure that those involved in a child’s education have a clear understanding their duties, ultimately providing increased parent involvement and student success. “Representative Bohac has been very responsive to the needs of Spring Branch schools and the needs of our community,” said Mike Falick, member of the district’s Board of Trustees. “His parent-student-teacher contract bill and his support of pre-k legislation show his strong commitment to education.”

Bohac has made public education a top priority since taking office in 2003. He represents Houston and Spring Branch school districts, portions of Cy-Fair, Katy and Aldine school districts, and the public schools he once attended: Katherine Smith Elementary, Clifton Middle School and Scarborough High School.

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