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Gov. Scott proposes $63 million for teacher supply grants

Gov. Rick Scott said in a news release Wednesday that his 2018-2019 budget proposal will include $63 million for teacher supply grants.
The proposal is an increase of nearly $18 million, or an  additional $100 per teacher, the release said. Scott said the annual grants are used by educators to purchase classroom supplies needed for the school year.
Florida teachers receive $250 annually for classroom supplies. and Scott’s proposal will increase the funding to $350 annually.
 “I have the opportunity to travel to schools and meet with our hardworking teachers, and yesterday, I was fortunate to meet with our Teachers of the Year to hear how we can make our schools even better,” Scott said.
Scott secured a $2,500 pay raise, which was appropriated by the Florida Legislature and provided to local school districts, who set teacher salaries.
“Far too often, teachers are forced to reach into their own pockets to buy supplies for their classrooms and I am proud to propose additional money for this critical program,” Scott said.
The release said that “This year, the governor secured the highest per-pupil funding in Florida history.”
During the Teachers of the Year event, Gadsden County teacher Judith Mandela told Scott it was hard for districts to keep teachers because of the pay. She said the state should consider setting a minimum salary level for all teachers, according to the Associated Press.
Scott said teacher salary decisions are made at the local level.

Cox Media Group

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