Speech Pathologists & Audiologists in Louisiana Schools, Inc.
P.O. Box 12177
Lake Charles, LA 70612

Sample Letter

Copy the text and insert your information.

Dear ____________________,

My name is ______________.  I live in ________________ parish.  [If writing to your own legislator, add: As one of your constituents, I am writing to request your support on an issue affecting nationally-certified professionals in our schools, not only in my area but across the state.]

I am writing to ask for your support in maintaining salary supplements for all nationally-certified professionals in Louisiana Schools as you consider provisions in House Bill One. 

 Governor Jindal’s proposed 2009 budget includes the elimination of state funding for nationally-certified professionals in Louisiana Schools.  However, not all nationally-certified professionals will be affected in the same way. The legislation for nationally-certified teachers and school counselors included a provision that in the event state funds are not provided, local educational agencies (LEAs) must provide funds for the stipend. However, the legislation authorizing stipends for nationally-certified school psychologists, school social workers, audiologists and speech pathologists is such that LEAs are not legally obligated to pay the salary supplements unless funds are appropriated by the legislature.  We fully support salary supplements for teachers and counselors, but we believe that ALL nationally certified school personnel should be recognized for their efforts to go above and beyond for our children.

 Because the salary supplement was funded for 2008, eliminating the funds from the state budget for 2009 without a requirement in place for LEAs to provide funds would essentially amount to a potential pay cut for nationally-certified speech pathologists and audiologists, social workers and school psychologists.  Compared to other southern states, Louisiana’s percentage of teachers and school professionals holding national certification is one of our strengths. As we struggle to overcome challenges facing our educational system, cutting pay for these professionals would not show an effort to recruit and retain the best and brightest professionals. Your support of continued funding for salary supplements will help to send the message that Louisiana values and rewards those professionals who pursue excellence in educating our children.

 Sincerely,

Your Name

Contact Information