School Board discusses equitable raises for classified staff in upcoming budget

Concerns over salary equity took center stage at the Coffee County School Board's recent salary compensation meeting, as board members grappled with the implications of proposed raises for staff. The discussion highlighted a significant disparity in proposed salary increases, with top earners potentially receiving raises as high as $4,000, while lower-paid employees, such as bus drivers and custodians, might see increases of only $900.

One board member voiced strong concerns about this imbalance, stating, "The rich keep getting richer and the poor keep getting poorer." This sentiment underscored the urgency for a more equitable approach to salary adjustments, particularly for essential staff who play a critical role in the school system.

The board debated various options for salary increases, with suggestions ranging from a flat dollar amount to a percentage-based raise. However, the complexities of the pay scale and the varying hourly rates for different job categories made it challenging to find a solution that would benefit all employees fairly. One member noted that a 3% raise for lower-paid staff could result in minimal increases, such as just 39 cents an hour for those earning $13.

Despite the discussions, it was clear that the board is still working through the details and has not yet finalized a plan for the upcoming school year. The need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the concerns of all staff members remains a priority as the board continues to evaluate its options. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in determining how the district values and compensates its workforce moving forward.