CMS outlines $25M compensation plan for employees over three phases

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) is set to implement a significant three-phase salary adjustment plan aimed at addressing long-standing compensation issues for its employees. During the CMS Board of Education Business Meeting on January 14, 2025, officials outlined a $25.6 million initiative primarily focused on raising pay for teaching assistants and other classified staff.

The first phase of the plan will see nearly 4,775 employees in pay grades 1 through 5 receiving an average increase of 13.9%, with the goal of bringing salaries up to at least $20 an hour. This adjustment is crucial, as almost 60% of the new funding is allocated to this group, leaving limited resources for higher pay grades. The remaining employees in pay grades 6 and above will see smaller increases, averaging 8.53%.

CMS officials emphasized the importance of transparency in communicating these changes to employees, suggesting that salary schedules be made publicly available. They also highlighted the need for ongoing job reviews and the potential for trade licenses to incentivize maintenance staff to obtain certifications, which could ultimately save the district money.

Looking ahead, the board plans to propose recommendations for phase two within the next four to six weeks, aiming for a more streamlined process compared to the initial phase. The district's leadership acknowledged that addressing these compensation issues has been a long-term challenge, with some problems dating back nearly two decades.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the salary schedules and securing necessary funding for future phases, ensuring that CMS remains competitive in attracting and retaining quality staff.