FORT PIERCE, Fla. — St. Lucie Public Schools and union leaders negotiated a new compensation schedule for the 2022-23 school year Monday.
Starting salaries for district teachers will increase from about $45,000 a year to $47,500.
The minimum pay for all support staff is also increasing to $15 per hour.
All employees are scheduled to receive a one-time bonus of $426.44 on Aug. 12, representing a take-home paycheck of $300.
"We are pleased to be able to provide these salary increases for our employees during these difficult financial times," Superintendent Jon R. Prince said. "We are committed to recruiting and retaining the very best teachers for our students."
The district said it is also doubling some salary increases in order to retain more experienced teachers.
Health insurance premiums for employees was also discussed and an agreement was reached. The board will contribute with an amount equal to 50% of the premium increase of the high deductible plan for all employees who carry school district insurance as well as making a one-time health savings account contribution of $750.
"Although there have been concerns with experienced teachers statewide, this agreement has attempted to address some of those concerns and ensure that all teachers receive a raise during these difficult times," David Freeland, president of the Education Association of St. Lucie Union, said. "We are pleased to be able to negotiate a minimum 4% raise for our classified and protech units."