Late last week, I had an opportunity to sit down and record my first video update of the session. In it, I discuss my professional background, my top legislative priorities, and the major issues being discussed in the House Innovation, Technology and Economic Development Committee. I hope you’ll take a few minutes to watch:

Introducing my first bill

Snowmageddon 2019 may have effectively shut the Legislature down on Monday, but it couldn’t stop me from showing up to drop my first bill in the hopper.

House Bill 2012, which has strong bipartisan support, would provide an opportunity for all K-12 instructional staff to receive a yearly bonus of roughly $5,000.

Since 2000, the Legislature has provided this bonus for K-12 instructional staff who have attained certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. However, certain staff, such as occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, school nurses, school social workers, and school psychologists have not been eligible for the bonus because their field is not included in the same certification process.

Under my bill, if any of these individuals attain national certification through the relevant national professional association for their field, they would receive the same annual bonus as their colleagues. Additionally, individuals working in high-poverty schools would receive an extra bonus on top of the annual bonus.

I want to make sure that we, as a Legislature, make it clear just how much we value all of the incredibly dedicated school staff members around our state. This bill would help us do that.

Contacting me

I really appreciate the feedback so many of you have provided this session on a variety of issues. As I mentioned in my video update, I am always available to hear your thoughts, ideas and concerns on the issues most important to you. Please continue reaching out to me at matt.boehnke@leg.wa.gov or (360) 786-7986.

It is an honor to serve you.