(Derek Babcock, LAGOP Chairman) –— As students across Louisiana head back to the classroom this week – thousands of teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, custodians, and school employees are doing what they always do: showing up early, preparing classrooms, welcoming students, and getting ready for another year of shaping the next generation.

They deserve more than our thanks. They deserve leaders who keep their promises.

When Louisiana voters rejected constitutional amendments that would have created a pathway for permanent teacher pay raises, many assumed the conversation was over. Governor Jeff Landry disagreed.

Rather than treating the election results as an excuse for inaction, Governor Landry acted. Through an executive order, he directed approximately $168 million toward one-time stipends for classroom teachers and school support staff. Eligible teachers will receive $2,000, while support personnel will receive $1,000, along with the required employer retirement contributions.

More importantly, he sent a clear message: Louisiana values the people educating our children. That message could not come at a better time.

As another school year begins, Louisiana’s educators are coming off one of the most successful periods in our state’s history. Louisiana recently recorded the largest one-year improvement ever on the Nation’s Report Card. Our students now rank first in the nation in reading growth and second in math growth, with fourth graders posting the largest reading gains in America.

Those achievements belong to our teachers.

They happened because educators embraced reform, restored classroom discipline, adapted to new challenges, and remained focused on helping students succeed.

Governor Landry’s decision recognizes those accomplishments.

It also recognizes that great schools depend on far more than classroom teachers alone. Every morning, bus drivers safely transport students to school. Cafeteria workers make sure children are fed. Custodians prepare safe, clean classrooms. Paraprofessionals provide individualized support to students who need it most. These men and women are indispensable members of every school community, and they deserve recognition as well.

Governor Landry made sure they weren’t forgotten.

No one believes one-time stipends are the final answer to teacher compensation. The Governor has repeatedly made clear that his administration remains committed to finding long-term, sustainable ways to improve educator pay. But educators should not have to wait while those conversations continue.

Leadership means finding solutions even when circumstances change.

After the constitutional amendments failed, the easiest response would have been to accept defeat and move on. Instead, Governor Landry found a responsible way to support educators while continuing to work toward permanent solutions. The Legislature joined him in ensuring those stipends become a reality.

As another school year begins, that decision sends an important message to every educator walking into a Louisiana classroom this week: your work matters, your dedication is recognized, and your state stands behind you.

Great schools begin with great teachers. Strong communities begin with strong schools. And strong leadership means keeping your commitments, even when the path becomes more difficult.

Louisiana’s educators have delivered extraordinary results for our children. Governor Landry delivered for them.