As a teacher in the public education system with over a decade of experience, I have witnessed the significant toll that budget deficits and the Texas government's negligence for our profession of teaching inflict on students and families—my own included. Daily, dedicated educators pour their efforts into nurturing young minds, only to see a rapid decline in the quality of education due to financial constraints. This decline isn't due to a lack of effort from educators; I've watched them work harder and longer for diminishing returns. Our salaries are stagnant and it's time for our pay to reflect the invaluable work we do, changing lives and protecting the future of industry and knowledge in our society!

Texas boasts a substantial budget surplus, yet public education remains underfunded. Year after year, Texas lawmakers put political agendas above the needs of their constituents (NO ONE is unaffected by the education crisis in our state), and these elected representatives fail to pass budgets which adequately address the financial needs of educators. This surplus presents an opportunity—a chance to right the wrong and invest in our future by properly funding public education, adjusting for inflation and teacher retirement concerns, and raising teacher salaries state-wide. Our teachers deserve a living wage that mirrors their dedication and perseverance in the face of a state-wide education crisis! 

This year, I was nominated as teacher of the year for my campus. This year, I am also having to leave the profession I have loved for over a decade because I cannot afford the cost of living. To protect the future of my family, I have to sacrifice the potential, positive impact I could have on all my middle school students' lives. And that is a crushing burden that me and my colleagues feel every. single. day.

The National Center for Education Statistics show Texas ranks significantly below the national average for educator pay. Despite being one of the largest states, Texas fails to maintain competitive salaries, prompting talented educators to leave the profession or relocate. The turnover rate on our campuses is due to the pressures placed on districts from the state level- it starts at the top!

Adequate funding is not just about paying our teachers more; it's about securing a future where Texas students receive the education they deserve. Quality education builds a stronger community, fuels economic growth, and ensures every child has an equal opportunity to succeed.

We demand the Texas legislature direct its budget surplus to properly funding public education. Sign this petition to urge our leaders to stand behind our educators, our children, and our future by supporting increased education funding and addressing the unacceptable disparities in teacher pay.

They have tried to ground us- to take our students' futures from them. We humbly insist that Texas lawmakers remain grounded, look at the problem realistically, and LISTEN to teachers across our amazing state.

Encourage your representatives to champion this vital cause and help us give Texas students and educators the resources they need to thrive. Sign this petition now and make your voice heard in the fight for better education in Texas.