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School board agrees to absorb health premium rise; leaders say state funds and savings should cover teacher steps and bonuses
Summary
The Isle of Wight County School Board voted May 8 to adopt 2025–26 health insurance rates and absorb a 22% premium increase rather than passing costs to employees, while board and staff said projected savings and expected state revenue should allow teacher step increases and a one‑time $1,000 bonus.
The Isle of Wight County School Board voted May 8 to adopt the 2025–26 health insurance program rates and to absorb a 22% increase in premiums rather than raising employees’ monthly contributions.
That decision followed public comment from teachers urging restored step increases and months of staff briefings showing a projected year-end surplus and additional state revenue that board leaders said can cover both the health plan shortfall and planned pay actions.
The issue drew several teachers into public comment. Amy Carr, a grade teacher at Windsor Elementary, said low pay is forcing experienced colleagues to leave: "You shouldn't want to lose me or other teachers just like me to neighboring school districts who are paying so much more." Reading interventionist Caitlin Britt told the…
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