Lawmakers to seek big boost in teachers' pay

Campbell said she applauds the goal to increase pay but believes class-size reduction is of equal importance and that computers aren't the answer.

"Technology is a tool, not a teacher," she said.

Like Campbell, Rep. Carol Spackman Moss, D-Holladay, who is sponsoring a class-size reduction bill this session, said she isn't fond of the idea of having to choose.

She said the emphasis on compensation should be right up there with class-size reduction. If top-notch teachers receive good pay, then they would be more likely to deal with difficult circumstances and larger class sizes, she said.

"But technology is just one component of teaching, and I just don't see it across the board," Moss said. "There is just no substitute to instruction from a warm, caring teacher."

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Patti Harrington said she is delighted legislators are looking at increases in teacher compensation but said both must command attention.

"It's clear that Utah must do something to attract teachers and keep them here in the state, but you also have to look at working conditions," she said.

Campbell said she is hopeful lawmakers will take advantage of a rare opportunity with the budget surplus and look at both compensation and class-size reduction.

"We are of the mind that the money is there for both — any attempt to paint it otherwise is simply making excuses not to deal with the real issues and take advantage of this opportunity," Campbell said.

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