Board of Education approves salary and health insurance changes for 2025-26 contracts

The Board of Education in Wisconsin held a significant meeting on May 12, 2025, addressing key issues that directly impact the local educational community. Among the primary topics discussed were teacher contracts, health insurance premiums, support staff compensation, and a new paid time off structure.

One of the most notable decisions was the ratification of the 2025-26 teacher contracts, which included a base wage increase of 2.95%, raising the new base salary to $50,600. This adjustment reflects the board's commitment to supporting educators and ensuring competitive compensation in the district. The board also approved a departmental adjustment of $343 to the teacher contracts, further enhancing the financial support for teaching staff.

In addition to teacher contracts, the board discussed health insurance premiums for support staff. The administration anticipates a significant increase in the district's overall contribution to employee medical insurance, estimated to rise by approximately $460,000, bringing total costs to just under $5.1 million. To address this, the board recommended increasing the employee portion of health insurance premiums for support staff from 12% to 15%. This decision aims to standardize contributions and manage rising healthcare costs effectively.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of competitive compensation for support staff. The board proposed a 4% increase in total support staff compensation, which includes base adjustments and step increases. This move is part of a broader strategy to attract and retain high-quality staff, ensuring that the district can maintain effective educational services.

Lastly, the board introduced a new paid time off structure designed to reward longevity among staff. This proposed structure aims to create a sustainable system that benefits all employees while adhering to budgetary constraints. The changes will set an annual accrual and rollover maximum of 90 days for all employee groups, promoting a healthier work-life balance.

As the board continues to navigate these important issues, the decisions made during this meeting reflect a commitment to enhancing the educational environment and supporting the dedicated staff who serve the community. The next steps will involve further discussions and approvals in upcoming meetings, ensuring that the needs of both educators and support staff are met effectively.