Idaho Legislators Reviewing Teacher Pay Bill

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — One of the Idaho Legislature's most anticipated proposals to boost teacher pay has been revealed just nine days before lawmakers begin setting the state's public education budget.

The Idaho House Education Committee listened to the plan Friday but did not vote on any legislation. Under the plan, beginning teacher pay would bump up from $31,750 to $32,200 per year school starting in fiscal year 2016 and eventually increase to $37,000 over five years. After three years of working at the beginning level, teachers would qualify to move into a new tier.

This would boost teachers into a higher pay grade ranging from $42,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience and educational background. The committee is scheduled to introduce the bill early next week.