The Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) held a special board meeting on June 25, 2025, to discuss significant budgetary updates and proposed compensation plans for the upcoming school year. The meeting focused on various financial allocations and adjustments aimed at enhancing staff retention and support.

The meeting began with an overview of the funding increases from the state, including a $55 increase to the basic allotment per student and a new Basic Cost Allotment (ABC) of approximately $106 per enrolled student. A notable allocation of $4.8 million was designated for teacher retention, while support staff retention was estimated at $560,000 for the next school year.

The proposed compensation plan included a structured increase for teachers based on their years of experience. New teachers would see a salary increase from $54,000 to $55,000, while those with one year of experience would receive a $1,200 raise, and those with two years would receive $1,400. Additionally, teachers with three to four years of experience would benefit from a $2,500 retention allotment, while those with five or more years would receive $5,000.

The board also proposed adjustments to substitute pay, increasing rates to $85 per day for non-degreed substitutes, $125 for degreed substitutes, and $145 for certified substitute teachers. For clerical and auxiliary staff, which includes around 1,000 hourly employees, a 4% increase based on the midpoint was proposed, reflecting the board's commitment to enhancing compensation for these essential roles.

Furthermore, a 2.5% increase was suggested for administrative and professional staff, alongside a $200 increase to the bilingual stipend for elementary bilingual teachers, potentially raising the total stipend to $1,200. The food service department also introduced an incentive for perfect attendance among its employees.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the importance of fiscal responsibility in planning for future compensation, as the district prepares for the next biennium and potential budgetary changes in the following years. The proposed compensation plan aims to ensure HCISD remains competitive in retaining quality staff while addressing the financial realities of state funding.