Alaska

Facts About Education Spending in Alaska" + "

• Spending per pupil in Alaska is $16,674 annually while Alaska spends $44,000 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -1.0%.

Alabama

In his January 14, 2014 State of the State address, Governor Bentley proposed a two-percent teacher salary increase for a second year in a row, stating: “Nothing is more important to a child's education than his or her teacher” and drawing attention to the sacrifices Alabama's teachers have made.

Facts About Education Spending in Alabama" + "

• Spending per pupil in Alabama is $8,813 annually while Alabama spends $17,285 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +1.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Bentley to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Bentley, First Lady Diane Bentley, and State Superintendent Tommy Bice to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Bentley.

Arkansas

We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Hutchinson. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Arkansas" + "

• Spending per pupil in Arkansas is $9,353 annually while Arkansas spends $24,391 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Hutchinson to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Hutchinson, First Lady Susan Hutchinson, and State Superintendent Tony Wood to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Arkansas. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Hutchinson.

Arizona

We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Ducey. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Arizona" + "

• Spending per pupil in Arizona is $7,666 annually while Arizona spends $24,805 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -4.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Ducey to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Ducey, First Lady Angela Ducey, and State Superintendent Diane Douglas to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Arizona. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Ducey.

California

While California teachers are paid well compared to others in the country, when you account for level of comfort, teachers in California come in near the bottom in 33rd place. Teachers in California are also priced out of home ownership in 83 percent of the state. Governor Jerry Brown asked Deputy policy director Brooks Allen to engage with The Teacher Salary Project. We were pleased to hear that the governor is taking the issue of teacher pay seriously and we’re waiting to hear from Mr. Allen about plans to raise pay.

Facts About Education Spending in California" + "

• Spending per pupil in California is $9,139 annually while California spends $47,421 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -1.2%.

We're still waiting for Governor Brown to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Brown, First Lady Anne Gust, and State Superintendent Tom Torlakson to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in California. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Brown.

Colorado

We have called Governor Hickenlooper's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Hickenlooper. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Colorado" + "

• Spending per pupil in Colorado is $8,724 annually while Colorado spends $30,374 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -5.5%.

We're still waiting for Governor Hickenlooper to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Hickenlooper and State Superintendent Robert Hammond to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Colorado. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Hickenlooper.

Connecticut

At $69,766 average teacher salaries in Connecticut are the 4th highest in the United States. When adjusted for cost of living, Connecticut is ranked #1. But that does not necessarily say much when compared to other professions and to other countries. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Malloy. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Connecticut" + "

• Spending per pupil in Connecticut is $15,600 annually while Connecticut spends $50,262 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +1.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Malloy to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Malloy, First Lady Cathy Malloy, and State Superintendent Dianna Wentzell to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Connecticut. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Malloy.

Delaware

We have called Governor Markell's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Markell. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Delaware" + "

• Spending per pupil in Delaware is $12,685 annually while Delaware spends $32,967 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -4.7%.

We're still waiting for Governor Markell to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Markell, First Lady Carla Markell and State Superintendent Mark Murphy to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Delaware. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Markell.

Florida

In spring of 2013, Governor Scott allotted state budget money for teacher pay raises with the goal of providing every public school teacher in the state a raise of at least $2,500 during the 2013-2014 school year. What passed in the legislature was a performance-based salary increase, which is still being negotiated district by district. We are hopeful that teachers receive the raises they were promised.

Facts About Education Spending in Florida" + "

• Spending per pupil in Florida is $8,887 annually while Florida spends $20,553 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -7.3%.

We're still waiting for Governor Scott to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Scott, First Lady Ann Scott, and State Superintendent Pam Stewart to say thank you for the 2013 gesture, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Scott.

Georgia

The Teacher Salary Project is in the process of scheduling a call with the offices of Governor Deal to discuss how teachers are compensated in Georgia. Please check back for an update soon, when we hope we can celebrate a great effort on the part of the governor's office to make change happen in his state.

Facts About Education Spending in Georgia" + "

• Spending per pupil in Georgia is $9,253 annually while Georgia spends $21,039 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -5.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Deal to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Deal, First Lady Sandra Dunagan, and State Superintendent Richard Woods to say thank you for the 2013 gesture, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Deal.

Hawaii

Hawaii will soon launch the first-of-its-kind statewide salary study to determine whether salaries at present are adequate to meet Hawaii's teacher recruitment and retention needs, particularly for the state's rural and high-poverty schools.

Facts About Education Spending in Hawaii" + "

• Spending per pupil in Hawaii is $12,004 annually while Hawaii spends $20,000 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Ige to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Ige, First Lady Dawn Ige, and State Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi to say thank you for the 2013 gesture, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Ige.

Iowa

In spring of 2013, Governor Branstad proposed tapping $187 million in taxes to improve teacher pay, specifically by increasing the minimum teacher pay in Iowa from $28,000 to $35,000, and providing annual bonuses for teacher leaders (e.g., mentors) ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. Especially because Governor Branstad has a daughter who is a teacher right now, we are hoping he will continue to exert leadership on teacher pay.

Facts About Education Spending in Iowa" + "

• Spending per pupil in Iowa is $9,807 annually while Iowa spends $32,925 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +3.0%.

We're still waiting for Governor Branstad to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Branstad, First Lady Chris Branstad, and State Superintendent Brad Buck to say thank you for the 2013 gesture, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Branstad.

Idaho

We have called Governor Otter's office, sent materials and a DVD of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Otter. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Idaho" + "

• Spending per pupil in Idaho is $6,824 annually while Idaho spends $19,545 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -2.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Otter to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Otter, First Lady Lori Easley, and State Superintendent Sherri Ybarra to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Idaho. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Otter.

Illinois

When adjusted for cost-of-living, average teachers' salaries in Illinois of $64,509 rank #2 in the United States. But that does not necessarily say much when compared to other professions and other countries. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Rauner. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Illinois" + "

• Spending per pupil in Illinois is $10,774 annually while Illinois spends $38,268 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -8.7%.

We're still waiting for Governor Rauner to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Rauner and State Superintendent Christopher Koch to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Illinois. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Rauner.

Indiana

We have called Governor Pence's office, sent materials and a DVD of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Pence. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Indiana" + "

• Spending per pupil in Indiana is $9,370 annually while Indiana spends $14,823 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -10.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Pence to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Pence, First Lady Karen Pence, and State Superintendent Glenda Ritz to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Indiana. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Pence.

Kansas

We heard from the governor's office that the state school board is the group to contact about teacher pay in Kansas. We believe governors should take responsibility for their state having high-quality schools with great teachers, but we will follow up with the school board while we wait for Governor Brownback to show leadership on teacher pay.

Facts About Education Spending in Kansas" + "

• Spending per pupil in Kansas is $9,498 annually while Kansas spends $18,207 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -1.3%.

We're still waiting for Governor Brownback to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Brownback, First Lady Mary Brownback, and State Superintendent Brad Neuenswander to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Kansas. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Brownback.

Kentucky

In January 2014, Governor Beshear proposed a $20.3 billion spending plan, in part to give long-overdue raises to school employees. We are eager to talk to Governor Beshear's office about when teachers will see the effect of this plan and are hoping to be in touch with Governor Beshear's office soon.

Facts About Education Spending in Kentucky" + "

• Spending per pupil in Kentucky is $9,309 annually while Kentucky spends $14,603 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +2.7%.

We're still waiting for Governor Beshear to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Beshear, First Lady Jane Beshear, and State Superintendent Terry Holliday to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Kentucky. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Beshear.

Louisiana

We have called Governor Jindal's office, sent materials and a DVD of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Jindal. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Louisiana" + "

• Spending per pupil in Louisiana is $10,723 annually while Louisiana spends $17,486 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +8.2%.

We're still waiting for Governor Jindal to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Jindal, First Lady Supriya Jindal, and State Superintendent John White to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Louisiana. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Jindal.

Massachusetts

The Teacher Salary Project recently spoke with Massachusetts Department of Education Commissioner Mitchell D. Chester who agreed that paying professional salaries was essential. The state is working on a plan through which teachers can reach strong salary levels by their fifth year in the classroom. We look forward to seeing the finalized plan.

Facts About Education Spending in Massachusetts" + "

• Spending per pupil in Massachusetts is $13,941 annually while Massachusetts spends $47,102.03 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +14.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Baker to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Baker, First Lady Lauren Baker, and State Superintendent Matt Malone to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Baker.

Maryland

Governor O'Malley recently shared the following statement with our team about his commitment to students and teachers: “One of the most important things we can do to strengthen the middle class is to provide every Maryland child with the opportunity to get a great education — that's why we made the choice to invest in our students and teachers, even in tough times. That investment is paying dividends with better results: we have had the number one rated public schools in the country for five straight years, eight out of ten children are entering Kindergarten ready to learn and we've made college affordable by holding tuition for our public colleges and universities to the lowest levels in the nation.”

Facts About Education Spending in Maryland" + "

• Spending per pupil in Maryland is $13,871 annually while Maryland spends $38,383 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +3.3%.

We're still waiting for Governor O'Malley to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor O'Malley, First Lady Catherine Curran O'Malley, and State Superintendent Lillian Lowery to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Maryland. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor O'Malley.

Maine

We spoke to Tom Desjardin from the governor's office on January 22, and he committed to watching our documentary film, American Teacher, and keeping the Teacher Salary Project informed of any developments in Governor LePage's position regarding increasing teacher pay. We look forward to hearing his thoughts and what steps the governor's office will take next to improve teacher pay in Maine.

Facts About Education Spending in Maine" + "

• Spending per pupil in Maine is $11,438 annually while Maine spends $46,404 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor LePage to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor LePage, First Lady Ann LePage, and State Superintendent Tom Desjardin to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Maine. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor LePage.

Michigan

When adjusted for cost of living, average teachers' salaries in Michigan rank #2 in the United States. But that does not necessarily say much when compared to other professions and other countries. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Snyder. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Michigan" + "

• Spending per pupil in Michigan is $10,823 annually while Michigan spends $28,117 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -8.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Snyder to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Snyder, First Lady Sue Snyder, and State Superintendent Mike Flanagan to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Michigan. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Snyder.

Minnesota

We are still trying to reach Governor Dayton's office after calling and sending materials and a DVD of American Teacher. We look forward to talking to a governor who has such a great track record in education about what he can do to support teachers in his state. We are eager to hear from you, Governor Dayton!

Facts About Education Spending in Minnesota" + "

• Spending per pupil in Minnesota is $10,712 annually while Minnesota spends $41,364 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Dayton to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Daytonr and State Superintendent Brenda Cassellius to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Minnesota. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Dayton.

Missouri

We have called Governor Nixon's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Nixon. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Missouri" + "

• Spending per pupil in Missouri is $9,410 annually while Missouri spends $22,350 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.2%.

We're still waiting for Governor Nixon to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Nixon, First Lady Georganne Nixon, and State Superintendent Margie Vandeven to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Missouri. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Nixon.

Mississippi

In March 2014, Lt. Governor Tate Reeves revealed a proposal to increase teacher pay. Building on the momentum started by House Speaker Philip Gunn, Lt. Gov. Reeves stated, “Our good teachers deserve to make more money,” urging meaningful pay increases that do not require teachers to jump through hoops. We still haven't heard from Governor Phil Bryant on this very important issue, but we are happy to hear Lt. Governor Reeves standing up for what is right!

Facts About Education Spending in Mississippi" + "

• Spending per pupil in Mississippi is $7,928 annually while Mississippi spends $18,000 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -2.0%.

We're still waiting for Governor Bryant to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Bryant, First Lady Deborah Hayes Bryant, and State Superintendent Carey M. Wright to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Mississippi. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Bryant.

Montana

We have called Governor Bullock's office, sent materials and a DVD of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Bullock. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Montana" + "

• Spending per pupil in Montana is $10,639 annually while Montana spends $30,227 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +10.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Bullock to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Bullock, First Lady Lisa Bullock, and State Superintendent Denise Juneau to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Montana. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Bullock.

North Carolina

On November 14, 2013, Governor McCrory announced that he and his administration were looking at several options to raise teachers' salaries in North Carolina. As of spring 2014, teachers' salaries in North Carolina still rank among the lowest in the country, and teachers are leaving the profession in droves. We're waiting for Governor McCrory's plan start to positively affect teachers in the state.

Facts About Education Spending in North Carolina" + "

• Spending per pupil in North Carolina is $8,312 annually while North Carolina spends $29,965 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -15.7%.

We're still waiting for Governor McCrory to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor McCrory, First Lady Ann McCrory, and State Superintendent June Atkinson to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor McCrory.

North Dakota

We have called Governor Dalrymple's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Dalrymple. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in North Dakota" + "

• Spending per pupil in North Dakota is $11,420 annually while North Dakota spends $39,271 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +11.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Dalrymple to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Dalrymple, First Lady Betsy Wood, and and State Superintendent Kirsten Baesler to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in North Dakota. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Dalrymple.

Nebraska

We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Ricketts. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Nebraska" + "

• Spending per pupil in Nebraska is $10,825 annually while Nebraska spends $35,950 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +4.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Ricketts to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Ricketts, First Lady Susanne Shore, and State Superintendent Matthew Blomstedt to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Nebraska. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Ricketts.

New Hampshire

Governor Hassan has made sure that education spending is strong. Despite locally controlled funding, New Hampshire salaries have gone up over 6 percent in the past decade. The Teacher Salary Proejct spoke to Molly Connors (Senior Policy Advisor, liaison for education) about asking the governor to take the pledge, or having the governor be filmed about her commitment to teachers. We are eager to hear back!

Facts About Education Spending in New Hampshire" + "

• Spending per pupil in New Hampshire is $13,224 annually while New Hampshire spends $34,080 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +6.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Hassan to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Hassan, First Gentleman Thomas Hassan, and State Superintendent Virginia Barry to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in New Hampshire. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Hassan.

New Jersey

We have called Governor Christie's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again, but haven't been able to talk to anyone. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Christie. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in New Jersey" + "

• Spending per pupil in New Jersey is $15,968 annually while New Jersey spends $54,865 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.5%.

We're still waiting for Governor Christie to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Christie, First Lady Mary Pat Christie, and State Superintendent David Hespe to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in New Jersey. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Christie.

New Mexico

While Governor Martinez froze salaries for 10 years, she recently proposed a ten-percent salary boost for beginning teachers and bonuses for educators who receive the highest ratings through the state's new evaluation system..

Facts About Education Spending in New Mexico" + "

• Spending per pupil in New Mexico is $9,070 annually while New Mexico spends $39,000 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -1.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Martinez to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Martinez, First Gentleman Chuck Franco, and State Superintendent Hanna Skandera to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Martinez.

Nevada

We have called Governor Sandoval's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Sandoval. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Nevada" + "

• Spending per pupil in Nevada is $8,527 annually while Nevada spends $20,656 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +4.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Sandoval to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Sandoval, First Lady Kathleen Sandoval, and State Superintendent Dale Erquiaga to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Nevada. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Sandoval.

New York

Governor Cuomo recently called for bonuses of $20,000 for teachers rated “highly effective” on their performance evaluations. He states: “You want teachers who can perform and do perform? Then...pay them like the professionals they are.&rdquo While it's true that good teachers deserve professional pay, is Cuomo's plan divisive and only meant for a few or inspiring? Share your thoughts with us via Facebook.

Facts About Education Spending in New York" + "

• Spending per pupil in New York is $19,076 annually while New York spends $60,076 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +10.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Cuomo to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Cuomo and State Superintendent John King to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Cuomo.

Ohio

We've spoken to Angel in Governor Kasich's office, and we are eager to hear back from you about what the governor can do to improve how teachers are paid in Ohio.

Facts About Education Spending in Ohio" + "

• Spending per pupil in Ohio is $11,223 annually while Ohio spends $25,814 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +0.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Kasich to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Kasich, First Lady Karen Waldbillig Kasich, and State Superintendent Richard Ross to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Ohio. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Kasich.

Oklahoma

Dr. Robert Sommers, Secretary of Education and Workforce Development, recently announced that “Oklahoma values teachers and we recognize the challenges they face, including low salaries. We’re supportive of finding was to increase wages. Let’s increase wages and increase autonomy. Let’s get the money in the classroom.”

Facts About Education Spending in Oklahoma" + "

• Spending per pupil in Oklahoma is $7,587 annually while Oklahoma spends $18,467 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +0.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Fallin to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Fallin, First Gentleman Wade Christensen, and State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Oklahoma. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Fallin.

Oregon

We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Brown. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Oregon" + "

• Spending per pupil in Oregon is $9,682 annually while Oregon spends $30,000 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -2.7%.

We're still waiting for Governor Brown to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Brown and State Superintendent Rob Saxton to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Oregon. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Brown.

Pennsylvania

When adjusted for cost of living, average teachers' salaries in Pennsylvania of $60,760 rank fourth in the United States. But that is not necessarily so high when compared to other professions and other countries. We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Wolf. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Pennsylvania" + "

• Spending per pupil in Pennsylvania is $13,467 annually while Pennsylvania spends $42,339 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -4.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Wolf to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Wolf, First Lady Frances Wolf, and State Superintendent Carolyn Dumaresqu to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Pennsylvania. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Wolf.

Rhode Island

We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Raimondo. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Rhode Island" + "

• Spending per pupil in Rhode Island is $13,815 annually while Rhode Island spends $49,133 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -2.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Raimondo to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Raimondo, First Gentleman Andrew Moffit, and State Superintendent Deborah Gist to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Rhode Island. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Raimondo.

South Carolina

Governor Nikki Haley recently revealed plans to increase the salary of entry-level school teachers to $40,000 a year, up from less than $30,000 in some districts. Read more about her plan.

Facts About Education Spending in South Carolina" + "

• Spending per pupil in South Carolina is $8,986 annually while South Carolina spends $16,762 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -6.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Haley to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Haley, First Gentleman Michael Haley, and State Superintendent Molly Mitchell Spearman to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Haley.

South Dakota

We are eager to follow what Governor Daugaard can do to support teachers in his state after a recent study showed that superintendents in South Dakota believe low teachers' salaries are the reason for high teacher turnover.

Facts About Education Spending in South Dakota" + "

• Spending per pupil in South Dakota is $8,805 annually while South Dakota spends $13,853 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -2.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Daugaard to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Daugaard, First Lady Linda Daugaard, and State Superintendent Melody Schopp to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in South Dakota. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Daugaard.

Tennessee

Governor Haslam recently committed to making Tennessee the fastest improving state in the nation when it comes to teacher pay. Watch this video that Governor Haslam released explaining what actions he will take to raise teachers' salaries and why it is so important to the future success of his state. We're still waiting to see the governor's plan set into motion; we will share updates as they affect teachers in the state.

Facts About Education Spending in Tennessee" + "

• Spending per pupil in Tennessee is $8,242 annually while Tennessee spends $23,558 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -4.2%.

We're still waiting for Governor Haslam to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Haslam, First Lady Chrissy Haslam, and State Superintendent Candice McQueen to say thank you, ask questions, and see what more they can do. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Haslam.

Texas

We are hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Abbott. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Texas" + "

• Spending per pupil in Texas is $8,671 annually while Texas spends $21,390 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -3.4%.

We're still waiting for Governor Abbott to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Abbott, First Lady Cecilia Abbott, and State Superintendent Michael Williams to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Texas. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Abbott.

Utah

We have called Governor Herbert's office, sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher, and are now waiting for the new education policy team to be in place in the governor's office. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Utah" + "

• Spending per pupil in Utah is $6,212 annually while Utah spends $29,349 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -1.1%.

We're still waiting for Governor Herbert to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Herbert, First Lady Jeanette Herbert, and State Superintendent Brad C. Smith to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Utah. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Herbert.

Virginia

We have called Governor McAuliffe's office, sent materials and a DVD of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor McAuliffe. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Virginia" + "

• Spending per pupil in Virginia is $10,364 annually while Virginia spends $25,129 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -8.7%.

We're still waiting for Governor McAuliffe to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor McAuliffe, First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe, and State Superintendent Steven R. Staples to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Virginia. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor McAuliffe.

Vermont

We have sent materials and a DVD copy of American Teacher to Governor Shumlin's office, and we are eager to hear what the governor can do for teachers in his state.

Facts About Education Spending in Vermont" + "

• Spending per pupil in Vermont is $15,925 annually while Vermont spends $49,502 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: +2.6%.

We're still waiting for Governor Shumlin to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Shumlin and State Superintendent Rebecca Holcombe to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Vermont. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Shumlin.

Washington

We have called Governor Inslee's office, sent materials and a DVD of American Teacher, sent postcards from supporters, and called again. No reply. We are still hopeful that we will be able to discuss teachers' salaries with the office of Governor Inslee. We are eager to hear what you can do for teachers in your state, Governor!

Facts About Education Spending in Washington" + "

• Spending per pupil in Washington is $9,483 annually while Washington spends $46,897 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -5.9%.

We're still waiting for Governor Inslee to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Inslee, First Lady Trudi Inslee, and State Superintendent Randy Dorn to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Washington. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Inslee.

Wisconsin

We've spoken to Governor Walker's office about the state of teachers' salaries in Wisconsin, and at this time, the governor is not planning any programs to make teaching a more sustainable and professional career path.

Facts About Education Spending in Wisconsin" + "

• Spending per pupil in Wisconsin is $11,774 annually while Wisconsin spends $37,994per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -0.2%.

We're still waiting for Governor Walker to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Walker, First Lady Tonette Walker, and State Superintendent Tony Evers to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Wisconsin. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Walker.

West Virginia

Governor Earl Ray Tomblin has proposed a 2% pay increase for teachers, calling teachers 'the backbone of everything that makes our gardens grow, more than any ray of sun or drop of rain.' Based on that suggestion, the Senate passed a raise of $837 for each teacher with no strings attached.

Facts About Education Spending in West Virginia" + "

• Spending per pupil in West Virginia is $11,846 annually while West Virginia spends $26,498 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: -3.4%.

We're still waiting for Governor Tomblin to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Tomblin, First Lady Joanne Jaeger Tomblin, and State Superintendent Michael J. Martirano to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in West Virginia. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Tomblin.

Wyoming

The state of Wyoming has worked hard over the past decade to increase teachers' salaries. Still, we are eager to see what Governor Mead can do to keep teachers' salaries competitive, especially with his proposed budget increase for raises for state employees.

Facts About Education Spending in Wyoming" + "

• Spending per pupil in Wyoming is $15,849 annually while Wyoming spends $43,500 per prison inmate.
" + "
• Change in average public school teachers' salaries over the past decade: 18.4%.

We're still waiting for Governor Mead to take the Governors' Challenge pledge.

Contact Governor Mead, First Lady Carol Mead, and State Superintendent Jillian Balow to let them know you support professionalizing the teaching profession in Wyoming. Here are some talking points.

Take the Governors' Challenge pledge, which will be sent to Governor Mead.

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