“After four years of cuts from local classrooms, I hope today’s announcement is true recognition among Senate Republicans that they have caused an education crisis in this state. Our hardworking teachers simply deserve a competitive salary and the ability to make ends meet. It remains to be seen how Senator Berger plans to pay for these raises without dismantling other essential services, given his massive handouts to the wealthy and special interests last year. I hope today’s press conference marks a true and sustainable attempt to raise teacher pay to the national average – and not just a desperate election-year attempt to mitigate some of the damage they’ve done. If so, we stand ready to work with him to support our teachers,” said Senate Democratic Leader Dan Blue.