COCISD Board OKs salary package

Special to the News-Times

COLDSPRING — The COCISD Board of Trustees has approved an employee salary package for the 2022-23 school year to include a $2,000 retention stipend and increased teacher starting pay.

The $2,000 retention stipend will be paid out in $500 increments to staff employed by the district during allotted time periods starting in August. The stipend is provided through the federal American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief fund and is designed to recognize the unprecedented and unforeseen additional responsibilities and duties of staff due to the pandemic and to retain employees.

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“In responding to the pandemic, maintaining instructional continuity, rising inflation costs, and teacher shortages, we know how vitally important every school district employee is,” said Superintendent Dr. Bryan Taulton. “We want our staff members to know just how much we truly value and appreciate the hard work they put in, day in and day out, to make sure our students are getting the high-quality education they need and deserve. Overall, we simply cannot accomplish the district’s goals without our dedicated employees.”

Also included in the salary package is a general raise for all employees of 2 percent of their salary midpoints and a 3 percent raise for teachers. Staff will still enjoy free lunch daily during the school year and one of the best medical insurance contributions available in the area at $359 per month.

Teachers in critical needs areas will continue to receive stipends such as $6,000 for Math/Science in grades 6-12; $4,000 stipends for English Language Arts and Reading grades 6-12; Spanish; and Special Education: Adaptive Behavior & Life Skills.

“This was an answer to prayer, as I’m sure many other employees feel the same,” said CCMR Counselor Kathryn Pedigo in a thank-you letter to the Board. “COCISD is a great district that is moving forward and making a difference.”