Peoria Unified School District approves new salary schedules for 2025-2026 school year

The Peoria Unified Governing Board convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on salary schedules for the upcoming school year and the rehire of social workers and mental health professionals.

The meeting began with a presentation by Ms. Fesley regarding the Peoria Unified Salary Schedules and Extra Duty Assignment Salary Schedules for the 2025-2026 school year. She highlighted that most salary schedules would see increases ranging from 2% to 5%. However, the salary schedule for school social workers and mental health professionals required revisions due to a lack of grant funding to support a proposed 2% increase. The board discussed the implications of these changes, particularly for new hires, who would start at a minimum salary of $50,000.

Public comment was invited, during which a former employee raised concerns about the clarity of the salary schedule for returning bus drivers, specifically whether they would start at $24 an hour. Ms. Fesley clarified that all bus drivers would be at least at this rate when their contracts begin.

The board then moved on to the approval of the rehire list for social workers and mental health professionals. Ms. Fesley reported that a survey conducted among social workers indicated a strong intent to return, with many expressing a willingness to transition into different roles if necessary. The board approved the rehire list, which included 22 individuals, ensuring that all would have positions available pending their licensure by July 1.

Another significant agenda item was the consideration of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the City of Peoria for integration with their Real Time Crime Center. This partnership aims to enhance safety by granting police access to the district's camera systems. The board expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, noting its potential benefits for the community.

The meeting concluded with procedural items, including the approval of a cooperative contract for playground solutions and the issuance of a request for proposals for program management and payment software systems. Both items were passed unanimously, reflecting the board's commitment to improving district operations and facilities.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's focus on supporting staff through competitive salary adjustments and ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff through strategic partnerships and resource management.