Teachers and staff present ‘Better Place to Work’ committee report; focus on retention and recognition

Members of the district’s Better Place to Work committee updated the board on work to address staff retention, benefits and recognition.

Committee members — classroom teachers, an instructional coach and other staff volunteers — summarized their work reviewing staff survey results and developing recommendations. The team said they prioritized maintaining staff choice in health systems, access to quality providers, and cost-effective coverage when reviewing health insurance options. Committee members also reported choosing to keep the existing compensation structure and PTO plans for the near term while committing to annual review.

The committee described planned activities such as opening a health clinic in winter, adding wellness partnerships, including staff-focused professional development, and developing a staff recognition program that can be personalized to individuals’ preferences. Committee members said they solicit input from building staff via building engagement teams and QR-code surveys and plan to continue meeting and expanding membership in the coming year.

Board members praised the committee’s work and encouraged continued communication and collaboration between administration and staff. The report was informational; the board did not take formal action on the committee’s recommendations at the meeting.