Plan would give teachers extra $5,000 in some areas.

Elizabeth Burmaster included that in a budget plan that would also set aside $26 million to help financially struggling rural districts cope with rising costs.

The plan would increase general school aids by $422 million over the two-year period between July first, 2007, and June 30th, 2009. The request will be considered by the governor and lawmakers as they craft the state budget next year.

Burmaster's plan would give $5,000 per year for nine years to teachers with certain qualifications who teach in schools where at least 60% of the students are eligible for free or reduced lunch.

AP