The Isle of Wight County School Board on Dec. 11 approved a minor increase to the division’s lowest substitute-teacher daily pay to remain compliant with Virginia’s minimum wage increase effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Staff explained the change is driven by the state minimum wage rising to $12.77 per hour; the board approved raising the lowest daily substitute rate from $95.00 to $95.78. Staff estimated the budget impact for the remainder of FY26 would be roughly $2,000 and said a broader compensation study will bring additional recommended changes to substitute pay in January and February.

Board members said substitute pay will be part of the larger compensation conversation next year and asked staff to include substitute rates in the planned compensation study. The motion to approve the pay change was moved, seconded and approved by roll call.