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Board raises long-term substitute rate to $150 a day after debate on competitiveness and budget
Summary
After extended discussion about competitiveness, budget impact and whether to issue an RFP for substitute services, the ISD Board approved an amendment raising the long-term substitute teacher-certificate rate to $150/day and approved the 2025-26 substitute salary guide with that change.
The ISD Board of Education approved an amendment to its 2025'2026 substitute salary guide that raises the long-term substitute rate for those holding a Missouri substitute-teacher certificate to $150 per day.
A board member moved to amend the long-term substitute rate "to $150 per day versus 140" and members debated the change at length, weighing staff recruitment pressures and budget precedent. Supporters argued the modest increase would help keep the district competitive amid a widespread substitute shortage; opponents cautioned about setting a precedent of frequent mid-cycle salary changes and urged caution pending budget analysis.
District staff presented the existing structure: regular substitutes are paid $130/day, long-term assignments (20+ days) in the packet were listed at $145/day, and individuals holding a full teaching certificate are paid $160/day for long-term assignments. District staff noted the ISD's long-term rates are near the top of comparable districts and proposed keeping the certificated long-term premium while narrowing the gap to encourage substitute applicants.
Board members also discussed issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to evaluate third-party subservice vendors; administration agreed it would be reasonable to issue an RFP for information, and the board left open that option. The amendment passed on a recorded voice vote and the board then approved the substitute salary guide with the amended long-term rate.
The board did not tie the pay increase to a specific new funding source; members said the district's budget can accommodate the change as presented. The district will include the updated salary schedule in the budget book for 2025'2026.
Next steps: administration will proceed with the approved salary guide, and the board requested continued monitoring of substitute staffing and potential RFP results.
