Chino Valley board approves new positions and raises maintenance entry pay to address staffing shortages

Board members approved a package of personnel actions aimed at filling vacancies and improving recruitment and services across the district.

Heidi presented several action items: reclassifying two custodial positions to lead custodians for evening oversight; approving a grant-funded full-time math interventionist for Territorial to bolster early math instruction; authorizing a part-time band teacher for Del Rio Elementary (two hours a day, twice weekly) to expand music access for fifth- and sixth-graders; and approving the hire of an additional in-house speech language pathologist to replace contracted services and reduce costs.

Administrators also presented a proposal to raise the classified entry salary schedule for the maintenance department, citing persistent vacancies and noncompetitive pay compared with nearby districts and Yavapai County. Board members said the maintenance shortages had made routine work difficult at campuses and approved the new entry-level placement schedule for new hires.

The meeting concluded with approval of the personnel report documenting numerous certified and classified hires, resignations and one retirement. Board action on each item was made by motion and approved by the board.