In a recent special meeting held by the Haysville Public Schools Board of Education, significant discussions centered around the district's salary package for the upcoming school year. The proposed package totals approximately $819,662, reflecting a 3.1% increase, which aims to enhance the starting salary for new teachers and staff.

Currently, the starting salary for the district stands at $41,524. With the proposed increase of $850 added to the base salary, the new starting salary will rise to $42,374. While this adjustment is a step forward, district officials acknowledged that it still falls short of their long-term salary goals for educators.

The salary schedule, which outlines pay increases based on years of service, will see adjustments that benefit both new and long-serving staff. For example, while new employees will receive a factor of 1, those with more experience could see increases that are nearly double, depending on their position within the salary schedule. The highest earners in the district could see their salaries rise to approximately $87,855 under the new structure.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted that not all staff members are included in the bargaining unit that ratified the tentative agreement. Classified staff, such as hourly workers and certain specialized educators, including occupational and physical therapists, as well as nurses, are not covered by this salary package.

The board's discussions also clarified that the increase to the base salary translates to a uniform percentage raise for all employees on the salary schedule. This means that the proposed 2% increase will apply across the board, ensuring that all staff benefit from the adjustments.

As the district moves forward, these salary changes are expected to play a crucial role in attracting and retaining quality educators, ultimately benefiting the students and the broader Haysville community. The board remains committed to addressing salary concerns and hopes to continue improving compensation in future negotiations.