School Board Approves Employee Stipends Amid Fiscal Challenges and Longevity Concerns

The Washington Elementary School District (WESD) Governing Board meeting on August 28, 2025, highlighted significant discussions surrounding employee stipends and the financial challenges facing the district. The board approved a stipend plan for current employees hired by March 31, 2025, with amounts prorated based on full-time equivalency (FTE). This decision aims to provide financial relief to staff who have faced pay cuts in recent years.

Board member Miss Peterson expressed her frustration over the lengthy process to finalize the stipends, emphasizing that despite a 2% raise, many employees are still experiencing a year-over-year pay reduction. She acknowledged the hard work that went into the stipend proposal but stressed the need for more substantial financial support for staff, who have been adversely affected by budget constraints.

Board member Mr. Adams echoed these sentiments, thanking the team for their creativity in sourcing funds, particularly from Medicaid reimbursements and the classroom site fund. He noted the district's significant loss of students, which has led to a $5.2 million budget shortfall, while the stipend plan is estimated to cost around $1.9 million.

Concerns were raised about the interest-based negotiation (IBN) process, with Mr. Adams questioning whether all committee members were adequately involved in the decision-making. He stressed the importance of communication and stakeholder engagement in future discussions to ensure that all voices are heard.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to improve the stipend process and a recognition of the ongoing financial challenges facing the district. The board's actions reflect a critical step towards supporting employees while navigating a complex fiscal landscape.