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Board explains one‑time state teacher bonus passthrough; counselors and other licensed staff say they were left out
Summary
Board members described how the district passed through state teacher bonus funds and added a $500 supplement for employees not eligible under the state's definition; counselors and other licensed staff said the state's eligibility rules were unclear and asked the board to consider making omitted licensed staff whole
The White County Board of Education reviewed its handling of a state one‑time payment tied to the Tennessee Education Freedom Act and heard public and board remarks about employees who did not receive the full $2,000 payment.
District administration told the board the state supplied a list of employees it considered eligible for a $2,000 educator bonus; the district passed that state payment through to those employees. "The state . . . sent us a list and said, here's who we determine are your teachers. Prove us wrong," Mr. D said, describing the reconciliation process with the Tennessee Department of Education.
After board debate earlier in the summer, the board decided to provide a $500 one‑time payment to employees who were not included in the state’s eligibility list. Mr. D said that decision was taken to ensure staff who received nothing from the state would receive a district supplement.
During public comment, Mr. Officer, who identified himself as a long‑time educator and school counselor, told the board counselors were told they met the description of eligible staff in public guidance but later learned they did not qualify under the state’s final reconciliation. "It’s just really disheartening that . . . we were left out," Officer said.
Board members and the superintendent expressed frustration with the state’s late and changing guidance. "I wish every person that had a teacher certificate would have received the bonus," a board member said. Several members urged staff to produce a short, auditable list showing who was excluded and what it would cost the district to make those employees whole; Mr. D said he would provide the list. During discussion Mr. D estimated there were approximately 35 licensed employees not paid the full state amount; he cautioned the board about precedent and long‑term budget implications if the district elected to make additional adjustments outside of a formal budget process.
Board members asked constituents who objected to the state definition to raise the issue with state legislators and the Tennessee Department of Education. The board did not change the prior decision at the meeting; members discussed a path forward through the fall budget process if the board chooses to act later.
