School district proposes $3.5M budget increase for staff salaries and benefits

The Winchester Public School Board convened on February 25, 2025, to discuss significant budgetary adjustments and salary increases for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on proposed midyear salary increases, adjustments to pay scales, and the overall impact on the school district's budget.

The board reviewed a midyear salary increase averaging 3.34%, amounting to approximately $860,640, which encompasses wages and benefits. This increase is part of a broader strategy to enhance compensation for teachers, counselors, and nurses, with a proposed step increase of 1.5% for these positions, resulting in a total average increase of 5% when combined with the midyear adjustment.

Additionally, the board addressed salary increases for non-teaching staff, which are projected to average 4.63%, leading to an overall budget increase of $1,067,477. This adjustment was based on a comprehensive review of 35 pay scales, ensuring that salaries are competitive within the market. The adjustments included raising the starting salaries for various positions while also addressing the upper limits of the pay scales to align with market standards.

Inflation costs were also factored into the budget, with an average increase of 3% for non-personnel expenses, totaling approximately $550,000. The overall expenditure increase proposed for fiscal year 2026 amounts to $3,566,938.

Specific examples of the proposed salary adjustments were presented, including a significant increase for teacher assistants, bus drivers, and custodians. For instance, the starting wage for bus drivers would rise from $16.70 to $23 per hour, reflecting a 38% increase. Similarly, custodians would see their starting wage increase from $14.16 to $17 per hour, a 20% increase.

The board emphasized the importance of these adjustments in recruiting and retaining staff, particularly in roles that have faced challenges in hiring, such as bus drivers. The adjustments aim to make the district more competitive compared to neighboring divisions.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the school board's commitment to improving employee compensation and aligning pay scales with market standards, which is expected to enhance recruitment and retention efforts across the district. Further data on the specific impacts of these changes will be compiled for future discussions.