Staff survey shows broad opposition to benefit cuts; board hears data that will shape budget talks

An advisory committee presented results from a district staff survey that will inform this year's budget discussions, telling the North Little Rock School District board that staff strongly oppose cutting benefits and many proposed cost-saving measures.

The ALPC presenter said the anonymous survey garnered 463 responses (298 certified staff, 165 classified). Key results reported included: 61.8% opposed outsourcing custodial services; 99% opposed eliminating district dental contribution; 78.4% opposed eliminating hospital indemnity insurance; 56.6% opposed removing longevity pay; 54.2% opposed reducing RNs; and 52% opposed reducing high-school prep time from 400 to 200 minutes. The presenter said the survey required respondents to use an NLRSD email address but allowed open responses that the committee provided to the board.

"We know staff are frustrated that we're asking them to take away from one side to give to the other," the ALPC representative said, describing the strong negative responses to proposed cuts. Committee members recommended the board avoid touching longevity pay and employee insurance benefits.

Board members asked follow-up questions about how some line items were calculated and how savings comparisons to peer districts were derived. A public commenter had earlier asserted that substitute-teacher costs appeared roughly $500,000 higher than peers; staff did not confirm that figure during the meeting and said some spending is not grant-funded but district-operational.

Staff said the survey results will remain part of the board's deliberations as the district refines budget options and that committees will continue to consult employees before final recommendations are brought to the full board.