BISD reviews compensation plan with salary adjustments for teachers and staff

In a pivotal meeting held on June 16, 2025, the Brazosport Independent School District (BISD) Board convened to discuss significant updates to the district's compensation plan for the upcoming school year. Chief Human Resource Officer Jennifer Neighbors presented a comprehensive overview of the proposed changes, emphasizing the district's commitment to employee retention and competitive pay structures amid budget constraints.

The proposed compensation plan for the 2025-2026 school year includes a new teacher salary schedule that aligns with recent legislative changes, specifically House Bill 2. This bill mandates salary increases for teachers based on their years of experience, with those having three to four years receiving a $2,500 raise, and those with five or more years receiving a $5,000 increase. Neighbors highlighted the importance of these adjustments in attracting and retaining quality educators, particularly as the district faces challenges in maintaining competitive salaries compared to peer districts.

In addition to teacher salaries, the board reviewed proposed general pay increases for all staff, with options for 3%, 4%, or 5% raises. The discussion also touched on the rising costs of health insurance, which are set to increase by 14.9% for the upcoming year. Open enrollment for insurance plans will begin in July, with efforts to enhance accessibility to cost-effective care through partnerships with local healthcare providers.

The meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to compensation, with Neighbors noting that the average teaching experience among BISD staff is 12 years, surpassing the state average. The district has also hired 56 new teachers for the 2024-2025 school year, reflecting a commitment to diversifying and enriching its educational workforce.

As the board deliberated on the proposed changes, it became clear that the adjustments are not merely about numbers; they represent a broader strategy to foster a supportive and equitable work environment for all employees. The recommendations from the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) aim to ensure that BISD remains competitive in the local job market, addressing pay disparities and enhancing overall job satisfaction.

With the board's approval of these recommendations, BISD is poised to implement a compensation plan that not only meets legislative requirements but also prioritizes the well-being of its educators and staff, setting a positive trajectory for the district's future. As the school year approaches, the community will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the district's ability to attract and retain talent in an increasingly competitive educational landscape.