“As we review this report, we are looking for alignment with the legislative priorities identified by our educator members across Texas, which include ensuring schools are appropriately staffed and that all school staff are adequately paid and have access to affordable health care and retirement benefits. We also need to see recommendations for strategies that will increase respect for educators’ professionalism and autonomy, as well as hold educator preparation providers accountable for high-quality training.  

“Between the strains of the pandemic, school safety issues, and the demoralizing effects of politicalizing public education, Texas teachers need the Legislature’s support more than ever before. Too many people are trying to make teachers and students political pawns.”