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Behavior‑tech teams urge Urbandale board to consider year‑round pay and wage audit
Summary
A group representing associates and behavior technicians told the board their hourly pay and the academic calendar produce low annual earnings and requested a year‑round pay option plus a district wage audit to improve retention and financial stability for student‑support staff.
Andy Alderman of 7126 Madison Avenue spoke during public comment on behalf of associates and behavior‑tech teams, urging the board to address compensation and scheduling that he said leave support staff financially vulnerable.
Alderman detailed typical work time and pay: he said staff work roughly 1,350 hours a year and that hourly pay in the district ranges from $18–$20. "At $20 an hour, that equates to a gross annual income of $27,000," Alderman said, and he contrasted that with a full‑time retail job paying $14 an hour that yields a higher annual gross income.
He asked the board to consider two concrete steps: offer an optional year‑round pay plan (spreading 10‑month earnings over 12 months) to smooth income during school closures, and commission a wage audit to reevaluate base hourly rates so support roles yield a "truly livable wage." Alderman said turnover among support staff harms students and increases district liability by disrupting services.
Board policy guidelines on public comment were read aloud before the remarks; the board did not take immediate action during the meeting on Alderman’s requests. The item will remain available for future staff analysis or agenda placement if the board directs follow‑up.
