The new “Educators’ Bill of Rights” promotes higher pay, professional development and safer working conditions for teachers.
DALLAS — The American Federation of Teachers of Texas on Tuesday unveiled a new teachers’ bill of rights that the federation plans to introduce in 2025 at the 89th Legislative Session in Austin.
“This Educators’ Bill of Rights really comes from below, not from above,” said Texas AFT President Zeff Capo.
The group is advocating for fair wages, noting that Texas teachers earn about $9,000 less than their national counterparts, as well as stable retirement benefits for teachers and affordable child care for teachers’ children.
Texas AFT also discussed safe and secure working conditions in public schools, including examples of classrooms with working air conditioning and schools free of gun violence.
“I’m especially tired of losing my public school family,” Capo said.
The Educators’ Bill of Rights supports religious freedom and the repeal of book bans. It also includes support for professional development for teachers.
“That support includes adequate funding for schools,” said Alliance/AFT President Lena Honea.
The announcement comes after the Richardson Independent School District voted earlier this year to close four elementary schools due to a lack of funding.
In a statement, the Richardson Independent School District said, “RISD trustees discuss and vote on legislative priorities prior to each legislative session. As the 2025 legislative session has not yet taken place, RISD does not have a position or comment on any proposals at this time.”
