Board approves 5% monthly increase for members and 1.63% salary increase for superintendent after debate

The San Bernardino County Board of Education voted on June 18 to increase board member compensation and to adjust the superintendent’s salary for 2024–25.

Board compensation: The board approved a 5% increase to the monthly stipend for board members, raising the amount to $601.99 per month (from $573.32). The motion was presented with background comparisons to other Class 2 county boards and passed without recorded opposition.

Superintendent salary: The board also approved a 1.63% cost-of-living adjustment to the superintendent’s base salary, increasing the annual base to $372,911 effective July 1, 2025. The salary item prompted more discussion: some board members raised concerns about responsiveness and the pace of follow-through on board requests. One board member announced she would not support the superintendent’s raise, citing dissatisfaction with communication and action on board priorities. The motion passed by majority vote.

Context and next steps: During discussion members referenced pending state legislation (discussed elsewhere in the meeting) that may change how boards set compensation. Staff warned that language and implementation details are still pending at the Legislature and said they would analyze implications if the law changes. The board asked staff to follow up with legislative analysis and to clarify processes in the event state law is amended.

Votes recorded: Board-member compensation motion carried unanimously; superintendent salary motion carried with one dissent recorded.