During a recent Coffee County School Board Salary and Compensation Committee meeting, discussions centered on the compensation structure for special education (SPED) assistants, highlighting the challenges of balancing pay and benefits for these crucial positions.

The committee outlined a proposal involving six SPED assistant positions. Of these, two would work enough hours to qualify for benefits, earning $13.84 per hour. The remaining four positions, which do not meet the required hours for benefits, would receive an hourly wage of $14.84, reflecting a $1 increase to acknowledge the demanding nature of the job.

The conversation emphasized the importance of these roles, with committee members recognizing the unique skills and dedication required to support students effectively. Questions arose regarding the pay disparity between those receiving benefits and those who do not, particularly for assistants working shorter hours. The committee explained that the higher pay for the non-benefit positions is intended to compensate for the challenging work environment.

As the board prepares to discuss these recommendations further in the upcoming meeting, the focus remains on ensuring fair compensation for SPED assistants while addressing the needs of the students they serve. The outcomes of these discussions will play a significant role in shaping the support structure for both staff and students in the Coffee County school system.