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HB 778

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in professional employees, providing for Pre-K Teacher Salary Supplement Pilot Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Borowski and 30 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania establishes a pre-K teacher salary supplement pilot program to boost early childhood educator compensation in public schools.

Referred to Education
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Bill Summary · HB 778

Legislative bill overview

HB 778 establishes a Pre-K Teacher Salary Supplement Pilot Program under Pennsylvania's Public School Code. The bill aims to provide additional compensation to pre-kindergarten teachers, addressing wage disparities in early childhood education positions within the state's public school system.

Why is this important

Pre-K teachers typically earn significantly less than K-12 teachers despite similar educational requirements, contributing to high turnover and staffing challenges in early childhood programs. This pilot program could improve recruitment and retention in pre-K positions, potentially enhancing educational quality for the state's youngest students while addressing compensation equity within the public education system.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and funding source: No details provided on program cost, duration, or whether it requires new appropriations versus budget reallocation
  • Pilot program scope: Unclear which school districts would participate, how teachers would be selected, and what metrics would determine success or expansion
  • Sustainability concerns: Questions about whether a temporary pilot program leads to permanent solutions or creates expectations that cannot be maintained long-term
  • Equity among districts: Risk that well-funded districts benefit more than under-resourced ones, potentially widening existing disparities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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