The West Virginia Legislature often faces criticism for introducing controversial policies, but occasionally, a bill emerges that could bring positive change. Senate Bill 506 is one such example. While its goal is to give teachers a pay raise, the debate has focused more on who benefits rather than the bill’s intent.
Under SB 506, teacher pay raises would be based on the median home price in the county where they work. The increase would be issued as an annual lump sum, subject to personal income tax, and adjusted every five years.
Public reaction has been mixed, with many questioning why teachers in the Eastern Panhandle would receive higher salaries than those in Southern West Virginia. The answer lies in the cost of living—$50,000 stretches much further in McDowell County than it does in Jefferson County.
To put this into perspective, in February 2024, the median home price in Washington, D.C. was $535,000, while in McDowell County, the average home cost was around $35,000. Since the Eastern Panhandle is closer to D.C., its cost of living is significantly higher than in Southern West Virginia.
Living wage data further highlights this gap. A single parent with one child in McDowell County needs to earn $63,333 annually before taxes to afford basic expenses, yet the average salary there is only $56,950. In Jefferson County, the required income rises to $78,123, while teachers still earn about $56,950 on average.
Critics worry that teachers in lower-income counties will be left behind or may leave for better-paying areas. This concern is valid, as many West Virginia educators already leave the state for higher salaries elsewhere.
A major issue with SB 506 is that only 25 of the state’s 55 counties would qualify for the salary enhancement, according to the state Board of Education. Teachers in poorer counties, who also deserve higher pay, would not benefit.
West Virginia ranks last in the U.S. for teacher salaries. According to the National Education Association, the average teacher salary nationwide is $69,544. In West Virginia, it’s under $53,000, with starting salaries around $40,339. Only Florida and South Dakota rank slightly higher, with average teacher salaries of $53,098 and $53,153, respectively.
If passed, SB 506 would take effect in 2026 and cost the state an estimated $183 million. However, with Governor Patrick Morrisey’s proposed budget facing a $400 million deficit, the bill’s future remains uncertain.
Although Morrisey called for teacher pay raises in his State of the State address, he has not proposed any specific legislation to achieve this.
SB 506 is currently in the Senate Finance Committee. With the March 30 crossover deadline approaching, the bill must pass the Senate and move to the House to remain viable. So far, it’s the only teacher pay raise bill under discussion in either chamber.
All West Virginia teachers deserve a raise. They are significantly underpaid despite dedicating long hours to educating and supporting students. If lawmakers want to strengthen public education, raising teacher salaries is a crucial first step.
