Districts give back to teachers




During the 86th Texas Legislative Session earlier this year, the Texas House and Senate passed House Bill 3, a school finance reform bill that includes $6.5 billion to improve public education and pay teachers, plus $5.1 billion to lower school district taxes. The bill was authored by state Rep. Dan Huberty, R-Houston, and sponsored by state Sen. Larry Taylor, R-Friendswood.

Schools are required to use a portion of their increase in per-student funding on salary increases and benefits for teachers, librarians, nurses and counselors, with a small amount designated for raises for all employees as administrators see fit.

Here’s what that looks like for teachers in Atascosa County school districts:

Pleasanton

Pleasanton ISD held a budget workshop on Tuesday, July 29 and will take final action on August 20 to adopt the tax rate, budget and the compensation package.

“We currently have two proposals for the board to consider. However, the board can change the compensation package until it is officially approved during the Special Meeting and Public Hearing,” said Superintendent Matthew Mann.

Jourdanton

The 2019-2020 compensation package for JISD employees has not been approved by the Board of Trustees, but is on the agenda for the regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, August 12.

“All the staff at Jourdanton ISD is dedicated to the students of JISD and I am so excited that our district is able to compensate them for their hard work with raises this year that includes more than just the step increase that we have been able to give on a yearly basis,” said JISD superintendent, Theresa McAllister.

Poteet

All teachers, counselors, librarians, and registered nurses with 6 years of experience or more get an additional $5,000. Those with 5 years or less will receive $2,500.

“We have some great educators in our district and there is no doubt they are worth more than what they are paid. We also know that a great working environment where they are valued and supported goes a long way,” said Superintendent Charles Camarillo. “We are hoping to give them the best of both with these increases.”

Charlotte

For the 2019-2020 school year, Charlotte ISD received an additional $500,000 with the passing of HB3.

What that looks like for teachers, counselors and nurses is those with more than five years of experience will receive an additional $3,600. Those with less than five years will receive $2,600 more.

“The district also had some additional funds in regards to the Bond Issue that was passed in November, so we were able to also give our maintenance an additional $1,350 on top of their normal pay and bonuses,” said Superintendent Mario Sotelo.

The Pleasanton Express will follow up with Pleasanton and Jourdanton ISD on their compensation packages. Look for an update in the August 28 issue.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *