In a bid to address financial challenges facing educators across Kentucky, State Representative Chris Fugate, a Republican from Chavies, has introduced House Bill 694. The bill aims to provide one-time cash payments to teachers, administrators, and classified employees over the next two fiscal years.

Under the proposed legislation, all teachers and administrators would receive a $2,000 payment each fiscal year, while classified employees, including school bus drivers and cafeteria workers, would receive $1,000 annually.

Fugate emphasized the necessity of this bill, particularly for rural school districts grappling with declining enrollment and limited resources. He highlighted the plight of districts like Breathitt County Schools, which faces significant funding challenges due to population loss.

The bill, which has garnered support from approximately 20 co-sponsors, seeks to allocate $153 million in each fiscal year to facilitate these payments. However, it excludes school superintendents from receiving the one-time bonuses.

While acknowledging the significance of the proposed payments, some voices within the education sector caution that they only offer temporary relief. Eddie Campbell, President of the Kentucky Education Association, expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment of pay disparities but stressed the need for a more permanent solution to address long-standing wage issues.

Kentucky currently ranks low in national averages for teacher salaries and classified staff earnings, highlighting the urgency of addressing compensation discrepancies.

Despite falling short of Governor Andy Beshear’s campaign promise of an 11% across-the-board raise for school employees, Fugate’s bill represents a step towards providing much-needed financial support to educators.

The bill underscores ongoing discussions about the state’s education funding formula, particularly its efficacy in supporting rural districts facing population decline.

Local school districts would be required to disburse the payments no later than August 31 of each fiscal year, providing timely relief to educators facing economic challenges.

As House Bill 694 moves through the legislative process, stakeholders continue to advocate for sustainable solutions to ensure equitable compensation for Kentucky’s educators.