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Carlsbad Unified trustees approve pay raise tied to AB 1390; vote 4–1
Summary
Trustees voted 4–1 to increase board member compensation to $2,000 per month effective Jan. 1, 2026, under new state law AB 1390 (Ed. Code §35120). Debate centered on timing of implementation and whether increases should take effect for future officeholders.
Trustees on Jan. 21 voted to raise trustee compensation in line with newly enacted Assembly Bill 1390 and Education Code section 35120, which updates statutory ceilings for board pay.
Dr. Rob Nye explained that under AB 1390 the district’s average daily attendance places Carlsbad Unified in a tier that permits higher compensation; staff said the updated ceiling for districts of the district's size can permit up to $2,000 per month. Trustee Rawlings moved that the district adopt $2,000 per month effective Jan. 1, 2026; Trustee Verbeath seconded the motion.
Trustees debated the timing and equity effects. Some trustees argued a higher stipend will broaden access and encourage diverse candidates who cannot otherwise afford to serve; Trustee Rawlings noted the increase is intended to reduce economic barriers to service. Others said trustees understood the prior stipend at the time they ran and suggested phasing increases to take effect when members are next elected. Trustee Ward stated she would vote no for that reason.
The motion passed 4–1 (Trustee Ward opposed). Staff noted the change was presented under the legal authority of AB 1390 and Ed. Code §35120 and will be implemented consistent with legal requirements.
Next steps: staff will ensure administrative steps and public disclosures are completed to implement the compensation adjustment.
