Supporting America’s Teachers Act

The Supporting America’s Teachers Act, introduced in the 119th Congress on March 29, 2025, aims to provide support for local educational agencies in increasing teacher salaries.

• Increases federal funding for part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
• Authorizes $5.2 billion for fiscal year 2026
• Mandates that at least 20% of new funds be reserved for teacher salary incentives

Mandatory Funding to Support Local Educational Agencies

The bill requires the Secretary of Education to reserve and use a portion of the increased funding for part A of the ESEA to support local educational agencies in increasing teacher salaries.

1. A local educational agency must have maintained or increased the salary schedule for all teachers employed by the agency
2. The Secretary must reserve and use 20% of the new funds for teacher salary incentives
3. The allocated funds may be used for various activities, including:

• C comprehensive teacher or school leader preparation programs
• Support for teachers to earn certifications or credentials in high-need fields or advanced credentials
• Teacher leadership programs
• Induction or mentoring programs for new teachers, principals, or other school leaders

Other Provisions of the Bill

The Supporting America’s Teachers Act includes several other provisions, including:

“…to promote and strengthen the teaching profession; to attract, retain, and diversify the educator workforce; or to advance the skills and efficacy of the educator workforce.”