Port Washington-Saukville board adopts new compensation model aimed at retention amid funding pressures

The Port Washington-Saukville School District Board of Education on Feb. 24 approved a new districtwide compensation model for contracted school‑year staff intended to improve retention and align pay with local professional learning.

The board approved the model by voice vote after multiple committee meetings and a district compensation committee process that included teachers, administrators and board members. The new structure moves toward increasing base wages through district-run learning‑based credits (LBCs), provides longevity steps focused around year 6, preserves a $6,000 one‑time master’s‑degree increase and adds a $4,000 one‑time payment for National Board Certification. The district said the model will also remove most out‑of‑pocket course costs for teachers by offering locally designed LBC options and that the changes are planned to take effect July 1, 2025.

Superintendent Michael McMahon and Director Mel Niedesheim described the model as a response to long‑standing funding constraints in Wisconsin and to local…