Committee to consider updated substitute pay rates; item placed on next meeting agenda

Committee staff provided a review of substitute pay rates used by neighboring districts and recommended the committee discuss possible adjustments. The report showed two-tier teacher substitute rates in peer districts (certified and noncertified), sample paraprofessional and nurse substitute rates, and current district rates for comparison.

The comparative figures cited in the meeting materials were: paraprofessionals $90 per day, certified teacher substitutes $125 per day, noncertified teacher substitutes $105 per day, and nurses $160 per day. Staff said these are the rates reported by districts the district contacted (Bourne, Dartmouth, Taunton, Middleborough and Old Rochester), and that the committee had asked for the information to consider changes.

After questions from board members about certification definitions and timing, a motion was made and seconded to place substitute pay (teachers, paraprofessionals and nurses) on the committee's next meeting agenda for formal consideration. The motion passed on a voice vote. No final rate adjustments were adopted at this meeting; the committee asked staff to return with a formal recommendation for a future vote.

Ending: Committee members asked for time to review the comparative data; staff will return with recommended language and possible draft adjustments at the next meeting.