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School board approves 2% across-the-board raise for classified staff; sub/para pay clarified
Summary
After reviewing state funding projections and health-insurance increases, the board approved a 2% raise for classified staff, left bus-route pay unchanged, maintained $145 daily sub-teacher pay and set sub-para pay at $120/day; estimated net increase to payroll was about $13,005.
Barnes County North trustees approved a compensation package April 16 that includes a 2% across‑the‑board increase for classified staff and clarified substitute pay rates.
The buildings-and-grounds/finance committee recommended the 2% increase aimed at kitchen, janitorial, transportation, administrative staff and hourly paraprofessionals, while keeping bus-route pay rates unchanged. The committee estimated the package would increase the district’s payroll bottom line by about $13,005 (the committee’s estimate incorporated a projected 7.63% health-insurance premium increase for next year).
The board also affirmed existing substitute-teacher pay at $145 per full day and added a sub‑para daily rate of $120 for paraprofessional substitutes. Committee members said the sub‑para line was added to clarify previous inconsistencies and to make substitute pay more attractive.
Board members discussed equity concerns and the trade-offs of a flat cent-per-hour increase versus a percentage. "A 2% across the board was chosen because it was more equitable in consideration of our values," a committee member said. The motion to adopt the package was moved, seconded and approved by roll call.
Next steps: administration will prepare intent-to-hire notices where appropriate and include the changes in budget and payroll projections for the coming year.
