Watertown administrators propose higher substitute pay to address staffing gaps; board to consider Jan. 6

Superintendent Dr. Larry Schmeagel and staffing leaders outlined a proposal to raise substitute pay to improve recruitment and retention. Administrators said the district currently fills roughly half of non-instructional absences on some days and noted regional competition for substitutes.

Tina Funnel presented comparative charts showing substitute rates in similarly sized regional districts and the district’s proposed adjustments. District staff said the last comprehensive sub-rate review occurred on Jan. 1, 2023, and cited the state minimum-wage increase and ongoing market pressure as reasons to revisit pay levels.

Dr. Schmeagel said the board is not being asked to act that night but that the item will return for board action on Jan. 6. "We would like to recommend to the board a daily rate that's competitive," he said, framing the proposal as an investment to reduce internal coverage pressure and sustain instructional continuity.

Board members discussed whether prior increases produced sustained improvements and noted competitive pressures from neighboring districts, and agreed to place the revised rates on the Jan. 6 agenda for action.