Education

This bill is concerning because of a huge fiscal note- in sub 3 the cost is $150 million. It creates a teacher salary supplement program that could cause division and damage collaboration between teachers. Definition of what makes up a good teacher would be decided by a group at Utah State University rather than the local LEA.

Pornographic materials do not belong in our K-12 schools. But local communities may have differing views on what constitutes pornography. Therefore the issue should be left to local boards to manage.

Poor behavior by spectators at school sporting events has been an increasing problem.  Principals and school personnel need additional tools to manage the behavior of spectators.  All community members should work together to provide a safe environment for our students.

Income tax deductions reduce the funding available for public schools.

Necessarily Existent Small Schools (NESS) is a program that serves a vital need in our state. Additional funding is given to schools that are desperately needed but do not have the student population to support a school without additional resources. Providing a better funding path for these students is highly desirable, and PTA supports resources being provided to make these schools possible.

Utah PTA opposes vouchers in all forms. Vouchers take funding from public schools and redirect it to private entities. This bill would expand eligibility to more students.

Income tax credits reduce the funding available for public schools.

This would increase income tax funds, and would make more funding available for education.

Encouraging legislators to spend time in our public schools has many benefits. It allows students and educators to interact with legislators, and promotes civic engagement among our students. Legislators also benefit by learning more about how our K-12 schools function and what their needs are.