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Trustees approve administrative pay increase after debate over formulas and transparency
Summary
After questions about why administrators' proposed 2026–27 increase appeared larger than teachers', trustees approved the pay adjustment following staff explanations of baseline assumptions and differences in step/annualization; board members requested clearer documentation for future negotiations.
The Manhattan School Board approved the district’s proposed 2026–27 administrative pay increase after a lengthy discussion over how the percentage was calculated and concerns about transparency.
Trustees asked why the administrative increase appeared higher than the 3.25% figure publicized for certified staff. Several board members said they were surprised to see a larger percentage on the agenda and sought an explanation of the district’s budgeting assumptions. District staff explained that an annual baseline assumption and differences in pay structures account for the discrepancy: administrators are not on the same step/lanes schedule as certificated staff and the district uses a budgeting assumption that includes a 1% baseline plus an adjustment tied to daily‑rate and contract‑day differences.
“As an assumption before negotiations, there’s a 1% bump to the base and then an additional difference between certified and administration because of daily rates,” a district staff member explained in response to board questions.
Board discussion emphasized the need for clearer documentation showing how the numbers were derived and for better communication during the negotiation process. One trustee said the disparity should have been explained earlier in bargaining briefings; others acknowledged the accounting explanation but urged improved transparency in future agenda materials.
Following the exchange the board moved and approved the administrators’ increase as presented. Trustees directed administration to provide clearer write‑ups on negotiation assumptions and the mechanics of any future administrator salary recommendations so board members can readily review formulas and the effect on different employee groups.
