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Educators urge review of Policy 15‑20 after testimony that stipends have grown into six figures
Summary
Two Washington High School educators presented district stipend data, arguing Policy 15‑20 has created steep pay increases for a small group of administrators and asking the board to review the policy amid concerns about equity and long-term cost.
Several educators told the board that Policy 15‑20 has produced large and growing stipends for administrative-level positions that create pay inequities across the district.
"In comparison, the Policy 15‑20 stipends range between $12,000 and $17,000 per person and are steadily increasing every year," Julia Bivens said, and she told the board the district could have roughly 60 stipend recipients. Bivens said the October 1 certified report (WVDE) shows historical pay data and that projected stipends for the 2026-27 school year could top $1,000,000 divided among roughly 60 employees.
Barbara Zing, a professional educator and department chair, told the board neighboring counties start teachers at $60,000 or higher and argued Jefferson County’s starting salary goals (previously cited at $49,060) leave educators at a competitive disadvantage. She provided supplemental materials to the board and asked for equity and transparency in compensation decisions.
After public comment, Board member Dr. Joy moved to place Policy 15‑20 on a future agenda for review; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote. Board members cited the budget season and recent raises flagged by a board member (one board member said they identified three employee raises totaling about $40,000) as reasons to examine the policy and its stipend structure before finalizing the budget.
The board did not amend the policy at the meeting; staff and board members said they will schedule a detailed review at a future date.
