Sanders' bill would require teachers make at least $60k

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – It's no secret that America's classrooms are lacking the proper number of teachers. Lawmakers say teachers are packing up and leaving the classroom.

"Public school teachers have been overworked, underpaid, understaffed and maybe most importantly underappreciated," said Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.). 

Sanders says his "Pay Teachers Act" would require teachers make at least $60,000. 

"They should not be forced to be on food stamps," Sanders said. 

Gemayel Keyes, a teacher in Philadelphia, says he's forced to use his own money for classroom supplies.

"Just this school year alone, I've spent over $1,000 on those things just so that I can be effective at what I do," said Keyes.

Senators critical of the bill say it's less about money and more about getting back to the core mission of education. 

"Some education leaders prioritize social agendas and progressive ideology over academic progress," said Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.). He says schools aren't spending the money they have wisely.

"There are now more staff collecting paychecks at schools than ever before," said Cassidy. 

Nicole Neily with Parents Defending Education doesn't believe there are fewer teachers in the classroom. 

"We don't have a teacher shortage; we have an allocation issue, particularly when you look at the fact our children cannot read," Neily said.

All agreed education in America needs more attention to ready the country's next generation.