School board approves substitute pay increase for 2526 academic year

In a recent meeting held on July 11, 2025, the Edmond Public Schools (EPS) Board discussed significant changes to the school calendar and the introduction of a substitute pay increase for the upcoming school year. These decisions are poised to impact both educators and students in the community.

One of the key topics was the proposed substitute pay increase for the 2025-2026 school year. Board members unanimously approved the motion, recognizing the importance of attracting and retaining quality substitutes to ensure consistent learning experiences for students. This decision reflects the district's commitment to maintaining high educational standards, even in the face of staffing challenges.

The board also deliberated on the school calendar, considering recommendations from a calendar committee. Two options were presented: maintaining the current calendar or adjusting it to include potential make-up days for inclement weather. The committee noted that historically, the district averages about 2.8 inclement weather days per year, suggesting that the likelihood of needing to use all allocated days is low. However, concerns were raised about the timing of these days, particularly in relation to important academic events such as finals and graduation.

Some board members expressed a preference for scheduling make-up days at the end of the school year rather than in April, citing the potential disruption to testing and extracurricular activities. The discussion highlighted the delicate balance between ensuring educational continuity and accommodating the needs of students involved in fine arts and athletics.

As the board moves forward, they aim to finalize the calendar in a way that minimizes disruptions while providing flexibility for unforeseen weather events. The decisions made in this meeting are expected to enhance the educational environment for both students and staff, aligning with the district's broader goals of fostering a supportive and effective learning community.