Beloit board approves two long-term substitute hires but delays pay decision until Dec. 19 after heated debate

The Beloit School District Board of Education on Dec. 2 voted 6–1 to approve two long-term substitute positions while excluding them initially from a broader personnel approval; after discussion the board amended that action and approved the two substitute hires at the rates listed on the personnel exhibit through Dec. 19 to avoid immediate classroom staffing gaps while administrators develop alternatives.

Board member Amy Levy moved to approve Exhibit A excluding the two long-term substitute positions and Exhibit B, citing fiscal concerns over substitute daily rates listed in the personnel materials ($470.64 and $264.12 per day). Levy said that, given the district's current financial position and prior decisions to cap some positions, she could not support the higher long-term substitute rates without more context.

Superintendent Dr. Wayne Anderson explained the district's current practice: rehired retirees are often paid at their retirement-era rate rather than at a flat district long-term substitute rate. He said he had asked Human Resources (Miss Almendarez) for further information and that some districts instead set a standard long-term substitute rate.

Several board members expressed concern about both fiscal stewardship and the substitute shortage. Tom Hankins and Carol Fox urged keeping the substitutes in place to avoid burdening classrooms; Brian Nichols and others recommended a long-term discussion about setting consistent district rates. Carol Fox moved an amendment to approve the two substitutes at their listed rates through Dec. 19 to provide the district time to pursue options. The amendment passed 6–1 (Levy opposed), and the main motion as amended carried 6–1.

Superintendent Anderson said he would notify the individuals involved and, if needed, propose short-term or renegotiated rates and a possible standard rate for long-term substitutes at a future meeting.