Shelby County schools to implement compensation review after delayed salary‑study rollout

The Shelby County Board of Education heard an update on the district’s compensation review and next steps to harmonize salaries across central office and school roles.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Richmond and HR leaders said the district completed a compensation study earlier this year that was not fully implemented under prior leadership. Richmond told trustees she commissioned a follow‑up review and has hired a compensation director who is scheduled to begin Oct. 27 to lead implementation and correct identified inconsistencies.

HR official Miss Oliver explained that the earlier study contained useful information but also “nuances” and comparators that required additional review before implementation. Richmond said some employees experienced pay reductions under previous decisions and that those cases will be reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis; she did not promise across‑the‑board restorations but committed to detailed reviews within budget constraints.

Board members asked for timely access to the completed study. Board member Hewitt Garcia and others said the board had requested the report months earlier; Richmond and Oliver said they would provide the study and an updated implementation plan when the compensation director is on board.

Why it matters: Board members raised concerns about staff morale and the fairness of pay changes made under earlier administrations. Richmond said the district will pursue clearer job descriptions, formal salary ranges and transparent communication about pay bands so employees understand career progression and pay equity decisions.

Ending: Richmond asked trustees to submit targeted questions for the upcoming HR business‑systems review; she and Oliver said they will include findings from the compensation director and present a timeline for implementation.