Cox asks Utah Legislature to make 2023 'the year of the teacher,' proposes 5% WPU increase and largest teacher raises in state history

Governor Spencer J. Cox told a joint convention of the Utah Legislature that investing in teachers is the single most important lever for improving student outcomes and urged lawmakers to make 2023 "the year of the teacher." He proposed at least a 5% increase in the weighted pupil unit and said the legislature should approve "the largest raise in our state's history" for teachers.

In his State of the State address, Cox cited data showing that teacher quality is the largest variable in student success and highlighted Utah's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that middle school math and reading scores did not decline. "If we ran an experiment with two identical students ... the teacher, I will win every single time," Cox said, arguing that higher pay and stronger support will attract and retain top teachers.

Cox asked the Legislature to fund the increase and to consider other supports that recognize teachers' work and improve the profession's standing. He framed the request as an investment in the state's future, saying strong teachers translate to improved economic and social outcomes for young Utahns.

The governor did not provide a bill number or implementation timeline in the address; specifics about the legislative vehicle and fiscal offsets were "not specified" in the speech. Lawmakers will need to draft appropriation language and vote on any salary increases during the session.