THE RAATZ ROUNDUP
Submitted for use on Aug. 6, 2025
Word Count: 382
Students across Senate District 27 are returning to classrooms to begin another school year. Throughout the year, they will learn important lessons and skills that will ultimately set them up for their future careers, and at the heart of every classroom delivering those lessons are teachers.
Teachers play an integral part in developing the leaders of tomorrow. According to an ING Foundation survey, 88% of Americans say they have had a teacher who has had a significant, positive impact on their life. Another study by RAND Education and Labor found teachers matter more to student success than any other aspect of schooling.
Because of the important role teachers play in the development of our students, it is only right they receive the support they deserve. That is why, this session, I authored Senate Enrolled Act 146. This new law increases the minimum teacher salary from $40,000 to $45,000. It also requires schools to spend at least 65% of their state tuition support on teacher pay.
Local school districts will still determine teacher salaries, but this bill increases the expected minimum pay to ensure teachers are being adequately compensated for their work.
I also authored Senate Enrolled Act 249, which will give school districts more flexibility in paying teachers by setting aside funds for supplemental teacher pay that isn't part of their regular salary. This will help fill teaching jobs in high-need areas.
In 2024, I also sponsored House Enrolled Act 1042, which provides more scholarships through the Transition to Teaching scholarship program. This helps alleviate teacher shortages by providing more incentives to take up careers in education.
Our teachers play an important part in our society by shaping the minds of tomorrow. It is imperative that they receive the support they need as they continue to guide our students.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by calling my office at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
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