District highlights teacher pay gains and new professional development plan

Representatives of the Fountain Hills schools and the employee association on Tuesday described recent increases in pay and plans to expand school‑level professional development aimed at retaining teachers.

Mr. Buckley, speaking for the Fountain Hills Education Association, said membership rose 36% since early April and clarified payroll changes: "We actually had a pay increase on average of 7%," with a base 2.5% increase and larger raises for some veteran teachers. He thanked interim superintendent Dr. Sweeney and noted the district will survey teachers ahead of any November ballot measures.

District staff outlined a district Professional Development Committee that will create a consistent, differentiated PD system. The plan calls for four mentor teachers at each school who will provide ongoing support to new hires, two mandatory in‑service days and two optional days, and stipends for teachers who vet curricular resources over the summer. Staff said mentors would be given defined parameters, could receive subs when they must leave class, and would provide at least eight hours per quarter of additional support to first‑ and second‑year teachers.

Officials also described onboarding work to ensure new hires receive keys, computer accounts, PowerSchool access and IT support before their first day. The district tied parts of the program to Title II‑A funds and said the plan includes budgeting for substitutes to allow teachers release time for PD or observation.

Board members praised the emphasis on teacher pay and retention and thanked staff and volunteers involved in PD work. The district also noted recent recognition for staff and students: Fountain Hills High School ranked 52nd among Arizona high schools in U.S. News & World Report and English teacher Jamie Sunshine was named Chamber Teacher of the Year.