Instead, the district will use the funds to provide raises and stipends for new teachers and other employees not covered by the state’s $28.9 million compensation package for the district.
Why it matters
This June 23 decision comes after the district’s 2024-25 plan offered benchmark raises ranging from $250 to $5,000, depending on an educator's years of service, Community Impact reported.
In a June 24 news release, Board President Lance Redmon said the board approved compensation package, which passed by a 6-1 vote, is designed to recruit and retain teachers at all stages of their careers, as well as other district staff.
“Our board believes that recruiting and retaining high-quality educators and staff is essential to student success,” he said in the release. “We’re proud to invest in our people in a way that reflects that belief.”
The breakdown
Under the state’s House Bill 2 Teacher Retention Allocation, experienced teachers will receive mandated raises for the 2025-27 biennium, including a:
- $2,500 raise for third and fourth year teachers
- $5,000 raise for teachers with five years or more
For new teachers not included in the mandate, Chief Financial Officer Chris Smith said the district will supplement by:
- Increasing the starter salary to $66,180 from $64,130
- Offering $500 annual stipends for first and second year teachers through May 2027
What they’re saying
Trustee Mary Ellen Cuzela, who voted against the plan, said the district could have done more to support its most experienced teachers during a teacher shortage.
Cuzela said she believes the district could afford the $1 million to maintain the benchmark raises, especially after Smith said the $26.1 million shortfall would be reduced or eliminated due to underspending and property tax refunds.
“The district already recognizes teachers on their five year anniversaries, they get a lapel pin,” she said. “I would like to see the district give them some cash when the budget allows, and our budget does allow.”
However, trustee Dawn Champagne said she was not in favor of continuing benchmark raises because it excluded staff such as bus drivers, custodians and librarians. Additionally, trustee Rebecca Fox said she heard from principals and teachers that the benchmark raises created tension on campuses.
“[When] you see someone getting it and you're not ... It just creates angst,” Fox said. “We have no data or statistics to prove that someone is staying in [KISD] because they're getting an extra $500 or $750 or $1,000 coming up if they stay two more years.”
What’s next
Chief Financial Officer Chris Smith said the district is set to discuss the 2025-26 budget in July and August, with final approval expected later this summer.
