Teachers, drivers, nurses, janitors, and all who work for school systems are essential workers in our society. They should be paid equitably to do these necessary jobs so they won’t look for better opportunities.

Nursing and teaching are professions that are mentally and physically exhausting. A bump in their pay rate will boost morale and likely increase productivity. This will only benefit the state, school systems, and children.

Those who are against increasing wages argue that a higher minimum wage will prevent low-skilled workers from entering the workforce. Those willing to pay higher wages will naturally be able to choose workers who are worth the pay. The result is a more competitive job market.

However, many entering the education field and jobs that support school operations have just come out of college and high-school and are often considered “entry-level.” Most Americans are making more than minimum wage, so a pay increase will not drag down workers climbing the corporate ladder but pull up those at the lower end of the pay scale.

The advantages of raising salaries for all who work in Texas public schools far outweigh any disadvantages. The education of our children is a top priority, so Texas should put its money where its mouth is.