Survey: Classified staff report overall satisfaction at Catalina Foothills but cite pay and year‑round hours as top concerns

Tucson, Ariz. — Catalina Foothills Unified School District leaders reported on Feb. 25 the results of the district’s first classified‑staff retention survey, saying most respondents expressed overall satisfaction but that compensation and year‑round pay options remain the top retention concerns.

Superintendent Dr. Bartlett, presenting the report, said the survey was given in spring 2024 and drew 157 responses out of roughly 350 classified employees. “This survey was given in the spring of 20 24. We had a 157 classified staff members, take the survey out of about 350,” he said.

The presentation showed the largest classified employee group is educational assistants, followed by office staff and custodial and technology positions. Respondents indicated they accepted positions for reasons that included job responsibilities, the principal or supervisor’s demeanor during interviews, and district reputation. When asked what would influence them to seek work outside the district, salary and wages were the top factor, followed by work climate and administrator support.

Survey results indicated roughly 66% of classified respondents were “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with salary and wages; about one-third said they were not very satisfied. The superintendent and staff noted the district has raised classified wages roughly 30% since the 2020–21 school year, including a large increase (about 14%) in 2022–23.

District staff discussed retention strategies raised in the survey results, including the retire‑rehire program to retain experienced employees, options to spread pay over 12 months, investigating whether pay‑out options are feasible for classified employees, and improved communications about benefit packages and how retirement contributions work. Several board members urged clearer, ongoing communications to help employees understand the district’s total compensation, including employer retirement contributions.

The item was presented as a discussion report; there was no formal board vote on policy. Staff said the classified survey will be repeated on a three‑year cycle and that the district plans follow‑up communications and site‑level conversations to address the themes.

Why it matters: Classified staff carry many daily operational roles in schools; their retention affects instructional continuity and student support. The survey is the district’s first systematic look at classified staff retention and provides baseline data for pay, benefits communication, and staffing strategies.

Clarifying details

- Survey period: spring 2024. - Responses: 157 of approximately 350 classified employees (about 45% response rate). - Largest classified group: educational assistants (inclusion/classroom assistants). - Wage history cited by staff: ~30% total increase for classified wages since 2020–21, including a ~14% increase in 2022–23. - Satisfaction with salary/wage: ~66% very/somewhat satisfied; ~33% not very satisfied.

Speakers referenced

- Dr. Bartlett, Superintendent (presented the classified retention report). - Lisa Tatel, Director of Finance (participated in related budget/benefits discussion). - Eileen Jackson, Board Member (participated in discussion and asked about survey impacts). - Tom (board member, first name only in record) and Jacqueline (board member) were present and participated in discussion.

Proper names mentioned

Catalina Foothills Unified School District; Sunrise Drive Elementary School; Orange Grove Middle School; Dr. Bartlett; Lisa Tatel; Eileen Jackson; Jill Green; Anjalee Matlone.

Topics

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