AMARILLO, TX -- Texas public school teachers could soon see a raise. They're hoping to get at least an extra $800 per year, and that number could go up depending on the attendance of students and the number of staff on board.
The Texas senate approved the raises, along with about two billion dollars in funding for school districts over the next two years. The bill tweaks the state's school funding program, and shifts the school tax burden away from local property taxpayers.
The Amarillo Teachers Federation said the last raise was three years ago, so it's a long time coming.
"Every little bit helps, Texas is 20% lower than most states across the nation however, we feel like every little step forward is a big step for teachers," said Dale Epps, the President of ATF.
The bill is now at the house for a final approval. If passed heads over to the governor's desk for a signature.
