Educators demand urgent pay raise amid budget crisis

During a recent meeting of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education, significant discussions centered around the urgent need for salary increases for educators and the introduction of new administrative personnel.

The board received a letter from the Chapel Carver City Schools Board of Education, urging the North Carolina General Assembly to amend the biennium education budget to include a minimum 5% pay increase for both certified and non-certified staff. The letter highlighted the ongoing strain on educators due to inflation outpacing current salary adjustments, emphasizing the role of public school systems as major employers in the region. The board members expressed their collective responsibility to advocate for the well-being of schools and communities, urging legislators to prioritize these salary increases.

In addition to the budget discussions, the meeting featured the introduction of two new administrative appointees: Michael Woods, the new Director of Career and Technical Education, and Jordy Roman, the new Principal of Carrboro Elementary School. Both expressed enthusiasm for their roles and commitment to enhancing educational experiences for students.

Public comments during the meeting reflected concerns about budget constraints and the need for a cell phone policy in schools. Brian Link, president of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Association of Educators, acknowledged the challenges posed by budget cuts but praised the administration's collaborative efforts to address these issues. He also urged the board to consider the importance of extracurricular duty contracts for teachers.

Community members voiced their opinions on various topics, including the potential relocation of FPG Elementary School and the need for clear digital wellness policies regarding cell phone use in schools. Parents emphasized the importance of prioritizing students' mental health and safety while advocating for consistent policies across all grade levels.

The meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing educators and students, as well as the importance of community engagement in shaping educational policies.