The Westbank Business & Industry Association (WBIA) has thrown its support behind the May 4 millage that will provide pay raises for teachers and support staff in Jefferson Parish Public Schools.
“Westbank Business & Industry Association is in full support of the Jefferson Parish Schools educator pay raise millage. We understand the importance of investing in teacher recruitment and retention for Jefferson Parish Schools,” WBIA President Charlie Frederick wrote in his letter of support to JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley.
“We have a responsibility to our students and parents, to provide the best teachers. This increase investment in our education system is necessary for training students with the tools needed to find good jobs and live well within our communities. Thank you for your commitment to our students.”
In addition to the endorsement of the WBIA, the JP Schools educator pay raise millage has also earned the endorsements of the Jefferson Federation of Teachers, the Jefferson Business Council, the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, and the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS.
Average teacher pay in Jefferson Parish trails both the state and nation. JP Schools is the largest public school system in Louisiana; however, starting pay for teachers in Jefferson Parish currently ranks eight out of nine
parishes in our region.
The millage, which is an increase of 7.9 mills, will go before Jefferson Parish voters in the May 4 election. Early voting is April 20-27 (except Sunday, April 21) from 8:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. To learn more, visit jpschools.org/educatorpay.
Formerly the Harvey Canal Industrial Association, WBIA is dedicated to a collaborative effort of the business community to support, improve, and protect the interests of its membership along the Harvey Canal Corridor and surrounding Westbank communities. Founded in 1946, WBIA consists of companies that are along the Harvey Canal and businesses who serve the corridor throughout the New Orleans region.