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Board approves $845,988 school bonus amendment, citing teacher retention
Summary
Page County approved appropriations to fund one‑time retention bonuses: $1,500 for full‑time SOQ positions and $750 for part‑time staff, funded with $311,135 in state funds and $586,615 from the general fund balance; Dr. Huber said the incentive targets teacher retention amid statewide shortages.
The Page County Board of Supervisors approved a budget amendment to provide one‑time retention bonuses for school employees after staff explained how state and local funds will be used.
Mr. Olsen told the board the General Assembly approved a one‑time bonus and that the local match is estimated at $586,615 with $311,135 in state funds. The proposal would allocate a total of $845,988 to the school operating fund and $51,762 to the school food services fund. Full‑time staff in state‑defined SOQ positions would receive $1,500 each; part‑time staff would receive $750 each. Unspent bonuses from staff departures would be applied to the school division’s budget deficit, staff said.
Dr. Huber told the supervisors the bonus is intended to improve retention amid a statewide teacher shortage and to help the division remain competitive with neighboring districts. Board members asked for clarification on who qualifies as full‑time and SOQ positions; staff said employee contracts and a state calculation tool determine eligibility.
A supervisor moved to approve the requested appropriations and the motion passed unanimously.
Staff said the amendment increases the school operating fund and food services fund totals and that procurement and contract terms remain unchanged. The board will monitor final payroll distributions according to eligibility rules and the school division’s contract language.
