FAIRFAX, VA – Republican gubernatorial candidate River Bytheway today announced his “Virginia Teachers First” plan, a package of common-sense policies designed to make Virginia the best state in America to be a classroom teacher. Speaking at a roundtable with educators in Fairfax County, Bytheway pledged to prioritize professional growth, school safety, and real financial relief for teachers without raising taxes on working families. “Great schools start with great teachers, and right now Virginia is losing too many of our best educators to burnout, bureaucracy, and better-paying jobs across state lines,” Bytheway said. “As governor, I will fight every day to give teachers the respect, resources, and opportunities they have earned.” The three new initiatives Bytheway unveiled today include: - The Teacher Excellence Initiative: A statewide program that provides stipends for teachers earning advanced certifications, funds high-quality mentorship pairings, and offers flexible leadership training (online and in-person). The initiative will also encourage school districts to create career ladders so veteran teachers can become master teachers, curriculum specialists, or instructional coaches while staying in the classroom they love. - Safer Schools with Teacher and Community Voices: Dedicated state funding for upgraded security infrastructure such as reinforced doors, modern camera systems, and active-shooter training, combined with a requirement that every school safety plan be developed by a local advisory board that includes teachers, parents, and students. “Safety and inclusivity are not mutually exclusive,” Bytheway emphasized. “Teachers will have a seat at the table to ensure upgrades protect everyone without harming the welcoming environment our kids deserve.” - Real Financial Relief for Educators: A new $500 refundable state tax credit for out-of-pocket classroom supplies, plus a pilot program offering down-payment assistance and low-interest mortgages for teachers purchasing homes in high-cost regions like Northern Virginia. “No teacher should have to choose between stocking their classroom and paying their own bills,” Bytheway said. “These are practical, fully fundable solutions that put teachers ahead of politics,” Bytheway continued. “I’m proud to stand with educators from Southwest Virginia to Hampton Roads who simply want to be valued for the life-changing work they do every day.”