District staff propose 5% principal salary increase to remain competitive

A staff presenter recommended a 5% increase to principal salaries so Oak Ridge Schools remains competitive with comparable Tennessee districts.

The presenter said Oak Ridge principals are above the 50th percentile on statewide salary comparisons but fall behind at the 75th and 90th percentiles compared with nearby districts, including Murfreesboro, Franklin and Knoxville. The recommendation, the presenter said, was based on statewide salary data and comparisons drawn from salary.com and local peer districts.

The presenter noted Oak Ridge is a small district with seven principals and that three of those principals are within their first three years of experience, a factor that affects upper-percentile comparisons. The 5% adjustment was framed as a market adjustment to support recruitment and retention of experienced school leaders; the board said the proposal would be discussed at upcoming budget meetings and no vote was taken on a salary change at the meeting.