Local school officials are happy with the Idaho Legislature’s proposed a $100 million funding increase to the state’s public schools budget, which includes $62 million to fund the third year of the career ladder for teachers.

The $1.67 billion budget was approved Monday by the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee and represents the state’s largest expense. It still needs House and Senate approval and the governor’s signature.

“The budget they passed is definitely somewhat of a surprise to me,” said Jerry Keane, superintendent of the Post Falls School District. “There were some things in there that hadn’t really been discussed earlier on [like technology funding], but I was pleased to see the commitment to the career ladder and other programs in there that will help the district.”

Along with more funding for the career ladder — the state's plan to increase teacher salaries to attract and retain quality teachers — the budget proposal includes increased funding for academic and college or career advisers and student mentors, technology and IT staffing, professional development and content and curriculum.

JFAC members spent a lot of their discussion Monday on how to address rising costs in health care, according to media reports. Ultimately, instead of creating a line item specifically for health care costs, JFAC members decided to increase discretionary funds for health, vision and dental insurance.

“There’s universal recognition that health care costs have to be dealt with,” said Rep. Luke Malek, R-Coeur d’Alene, who serves on JFAC. “The debate is knowing what the actual cost is and developing a process for determining that moving forward.”

Lakeland School District officials are particularly grateful JFAC included funding increases for college and career readiness efforts and professional development.

Lisa Sexton, the district’s assistant superintendent, said those two programs in the district have been a great resource for students and teachers.

“It helps us look at professional development from a district perspective; what teachers need to continue doing the best they can with our kids,” Sexton said. “[The budget is] not perfect, but we’re getting there. I just really appreciate the commitment of our Legislature to education.”

Matt Handelman, superintendent of the Coeur d’Alene School District, said he’s pleased with the increase in discretionary funding and is glad to see the lack of any additional restrictive funding. There are still many earmarked items within the budget, he said, but the Legislature didn’t add any additional ones.

“For most of these items we already dedicate more funds to them than what the state provides,” he said. “We recognize our needs are still greater than the [funding] increases, but they are very welcome; especially as we grow and are getting ready to open another school.”