3.22.22 - Budget & Finance Committee Meeting Update
Here's a quick update from the Budget and Finance Committee meeting from 3/22/22:
The major theme of the evening was no new updates. The Support Staff Pay Study has not been completed, yet, so there's no update on support staff pay increases, or any other pay increases.
In response to a question about pay rate for substitute teachers, Dr. Battle went through a list of what the district already does, but it's clear to us that what is currently being done is not enough to attract and retain subs.
School Board Member Abigail Tylor once again checked in on the possibility of a retention bonus, to which Dr. Battle doubled down on not using one-time bonuses to show value for employees, stating that she'd rather do so through step increases and COLA. Our thoughts are: "Why not both?" This year has been incredibly difficult, and true appreciation would recognize us for the work we've already done.
Finally, there will be hearings on the budget on Teams on three different days/times. This is an opportunity for all stakeholders to provide feedback (links to the meetings embedded below):
The next budget meeting will be April 12th @ 4PM, at which time the Board is expected to adopt a proposed budget to be sent to the Mayor. This will be a big date for us, so please plan ahead to come to the meeting, wear red, and your button. Our advocacy will then turn to the Mayor and City Council.