Board approves 2026 insurance renewals; defined contribution adjustments aim to limit employee premium increases

Pam Kelly, director of finance, presented insurance renewal recommendations for the 2026 benefit year at the Aug. 4 meeting. The benefits committee recommended renewing health insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield at an approximate 11.5% increase and dental insurance with Delta Dental at a 5% increase. Other coverages — vision, disability and basic life — were recommended to renew with no premium increase.

The committee and the district’s IBB (interest-based bargaining) team recommended a defined contribution schedule for employer assistance to reduce employees’ premium exposure. The figures stated in the presentation were: employee only $675; employee + spouse $1,116; employee + children $1,116; and family $1,355. Kelly said the structure would keep each member’s out-of-pocket increase at no more than $40.

Board members and employee representatives praised the negotiation, calling the benefits meeting notably cooperative. The administration asked the board to approve the renewals and the IBB-recommended defined contribution. The board approved the recommendation on a 7-0 vote.

Ending: The renewals and defined contribution schedule were approved by the board; human-resources and finance staff will implement plan renewals effective Jan. 1, 2026, and carry out employee enrollment communications.