Mississippi Can No Longer Afford to Underpay Its Educators

By Rep. Fabian Nelson

Mississippi’s educators — from classroom teachers to assistant teachers and support staff — do some of the most important work in our state. Yet year after year, we ask them to do it for far less than almost anywhere else in the nation.

Mississippi consistently ranks near the bottom nationally in average teacher pay, often 49th or 50th. While the national average teacher salary is around $67,000, Mississippi teachers earn tens of thousands less. That gap makes it harder to recruit new educators, retain experienced ones, and provide stability for our students.

The problem does not stop with teachers. Assistant teachers, paraprofessionals, custodians, cafeteria workers, instructional aides, secretaries, and bus drivers — the backbone of our schools — are also paid far below national averages. Nationally, teacher assistants earn roughly $29,000 to $32,000 a year. In Mississippi, many earn $22,000 or less, with some starting near minimum wage despite the critical role they play in classrooms every day.

When educators and school staff are underpaid, turnover increases and students suffer. Schools lose experience, continuity, and trusted adults who help create safe, supportive learning environments.

That is why House Bill 1126 is so important.

The bill is currently awaiting action in the Senate — including committee consideration, full Senate approval, and ultimately the governor’s signature. If enacted, HB 1126 would take a meaningful step toward improving teacher compensation by raising minimum salaries, providing state-funded pay increases for experienced educators, and helping districts compete for talent in high-need areas.

This is not about extravagance. It is about respect.

Teachers and school professionals are trained, dedicated professionals who shape the future of Mississippi. Yet too many are forced to take second jobs or consider leaving the profession simply to make ends meet.

Some argue Mississippi’s lower cost of living justifies lower pay. But housing, healthcare, childcare, and groceries have all risen sharply. A low ranking is still a low ranking — and our educators feel it every month.

HB 1126 will not solve every challenge facing public education, but it sends a clear message that Mississippi is ready to value the people who make our schools work.

We will continue to push for this legislation to move through the Senate, and we will continue working to increase the pay of our assistant teachers and support staff in the near future. Our commitment must extend to every professional who supports our students each day.

Mississippi has an opportunity to move forward. Let’s not miss it.

Fabian Nelson is State Representative for House District 66. This editorial was published in the www.thepeoplespaperms.com.