School board asks staff to model $750 pay increase and amends plan to include all employees

At the May 28 special meeting, the Robertson County School Board directed district staff to model the fiscal impact of a $750 pay increase in addition to step increases and other salary items, then amended that direction to apply the $750 to all employees. The amended directive passed unanimously, 5–0.

Discussion began as trustees weighed how to respond if the county approves raises for county employees. Dr. Weeks reviewed the draft budget and revenue assumptions, telling the board total revenues were conservatively budgeted at roughly $141,000,000 while proposed expenditures approached $149,000,000, leaving a planning gap of about $8.5 million. Major revenue lines cited included a property‑tax estimate of about $20,060,000, sales tax estimated near $19,500,000, and state aid (TEA/TEASA/TISA) estimates near $88–88.3 million.

Trustees stressed retention and morale concerns given rising benefits and retirement costs; Dr. Weeks said state retirement contribution rates are projected to rise by about 9% and medical insurance costs could increase in the double digits (staff used a working assumption of roughly 12% for medical insurance). Staff also noted the district has budgeted two teaching positions on hold and added special‑education and support positions to respond to student needs.

After discussion, Demetriem White moved to "direct the director's office to look at an increase of $750 for certified staff in addition to their step raises and report back with the impact to the proposed budget." The motion was seconded and later amended on the floor to apply the $750 to all employees; the amended motion was approved 5–0. Dr. Weeks said staff will return with the dollar‑impact to the proposed budget ahead of the June 9 presentation to the county commission.

The board also discussed options for covering one‑time or recurring compensation changes, including placing one‑time bonuses outside the base budget and using fund balance or a later budget amendment if needed. The board set a near‑term calendar: staff must provide updated impact numbers to accommodate the district’s June 9 county presentation and related budget committee meetings.