As part of the approved master contract for 2008-2009, the Arkansas City school board approved an increase in pay of 3.62 percent for all certified staff Monday.
The total increase in compensation, including benefits, equals 4.79 percent for the new fiscal year.
In keeping with its past trend, the USD 470 board approved a number near that of the certified staff for other staff in the district. All classified staff will receive a 3.5 percent salary increase for the new year.
The board also approved longevity pay for classified staff – similar to that of certified staff – for the new year. Now, classified employees who have worked in the district for 20.5 to 24 years will be paid an annual longevity bonus of 3.5 percent of their base contract salary for the current year.
Those who have worked in the district for 24.5-plus years will be paid an annual bonus of 4.5 percent of their base contract salary for the current year.
The board has committed to improving the benefits package of the classified staff, recognizing the important role these individuals play in the success of students and the district, according to district officials.
