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HB 2565

Requiring that employees of the Kansas state school for the blind and the Kansas state school for the deaf be paid at same rate of compensation that is paid to a teacher employed by USD 233, Olathe, in the current school year.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HB 2565 mandates employees at Kansas's state schools for blind and deaf students earn salaries matching Olathe's USD 233 teacher pay scale, raising state compensation costs.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2565

Legislative bill overview

HB 2565 would require employees at Kansas's state school for the blind and state school for the deaf to receive compensation equal to what teachers earn in USD 233 (Olathe). This would essentially peg salaries at these specialized state institutions to Olathe's teacher pay scale in the current school year.

Why is this important

These schools serve students with significant disabilities who require specialized instruction and support. Pay parity could affect recruitment and retention of qualified staff at these institutions, while also creating budget implications for the state. The bill addresses potential wage disparities between specialized state schools and standard school districts.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget impact: Olathe is a relatively affluent suburban district; mandating its pay scale statewide could significantly increase state spending without a dedicated funding source
  • Equity concerns: Using one specific district's salary schedule may not reflect cost-of-living differences across Kansas or the specialized qualifications required for these schools
  • Scope of employees: The bill references "employees" broadly—unclear if this applies only to teachers or extends to all staff (administrators, support personnel, etc.), which affects total cost
  • Sustainability: Tying compensation to another district's voluntary pay decisions creates ongoing obligations that may exceed state fiscal capacity

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

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