MNPS reports 97% teacher fill rate; step increases, 3% COLA and state bonus to be paid in August

MNPS reports 97% teacher fill rate; step increases, 3% COLA and state bonus to be paid in August District officials told the board the district has a high teacher fill rate and described compensation and hiring progress ahead of the school year. The staffing updates matter for classroom continuity, substitute coverage and school operations as the year begins. Dr. Battle reported a 97% classroom teacher fill rate and said more than 500 classroom associates were returning or newly hired. The district reported reductions in several vacancy categories: nutrition service vacancies dropped to 43 from 100 the prior July and paraprofessional openings fell to 61 from 78. Transportation staffing, including bus drivers, was described as stable compared with a strong start last year. On compensation, the district said it included step increases for eligible staff and a 3% cost‑of‑living adjustment. The district said a $2,000 bonus offered by the state will be paid on Aug. 4 to 5,446 licensed teachers. District leaders said pay increases will appear in checks on Friday, Aug. 15, with retroactive pay on Aug. 29 for eligible employees. No board vote on compensation was recorded during the presentation; the district described the payroll and personnel status as operational information. Quote from the meeting: • Dr. Battle: "We're proud to report, even a couple weeks before the first day of school, a 97% classroom teacher fill rate so far this year." (staffing summary) District leaders credited human resources and school leaders for hiring progress and named Chief Lisa Spencer for HR leadership in the remarks.