USD 308, Hutchinson Public Schools, Announces Significant Wage Increases Across All Staff Levels
Hutchinson, KS—USD 308, Hutchinson Public Schools, is proud to announce significant wage adjustments following the successful settlement of the professional negotiated agreement on August 12, 2024. These changes reflect the district's commitment to remaining competitive in the job market and providing fair compensation to all employees, from substitutes to certified staff and classified employees.
Wage and Benefit Increases:
Certified Staff: Base pay (column 1, step 1) for certified staff has increased by $4,000 (9.4%), with additional funding for step and column movement on the pay scale. New base pay salary is $46,600.
Classified Staff: The lowest starting wage for classified staff has been raised from $14.00 to $15.00 per hour, marking a 7.1% increase for entry-level positions. All hourly employees will benefit from a minimum increase of $1 per hour, with each position's starting wage seeing a corresponding $1 per hour boost.
Substitute Teachers: Daily substitute pay has been increased to $135, up from $110, with long-term substitutes earning $155 per day. This adjustment ensures competitiveness with surrounding markets and addresses the high demand for substitutes.
Healthcare Contribution: The board has increased its monthly healthcare contribution by $85, bringing the total contribution to $615 per month, representing a 16% enhancement.
These wage adjustments are part of USD 308’s ongoing effort to provide competitive salaries and benefits, ensuring that the district remains a leader in education and a key player in attracting and retaining top talent.
New Date and Time Set for Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing
The document sent out by the County Clerk’s office stated the Revenue Neutral Rate hearing would be held on “August 6th, at 5:45 pm”. This was in error. The Revenue Neutral Rate hearing will be held on “August 26th, at 5:45pm” at the USD 308 District Administration Center.
A motion to publish the budget was passed 7-0. The Board approved a motion to publish the new revenue neutral hearing date in the Hutchinson News.
Board Action Items
Besides budget items, other notable action items for the board were hiring a third School Resource Officer and continuing Hutch Recreation Commission’s Stay-to-Play program hosted at Graber Elementary. This program focuses on the areas of academic success, healthy lifestyles, good character, and citizenship.
The full agenda can be found here: www.usd308.com/boe
The next regularly scheduled meeting is August 26th at 6:00pm, with the Revenue Neutral Rate and budget hearing to be held prior to, beginning at 5:45pm. Meeting location is at the USD 308 Administrative Center, 1520 N. Plum.