El Paso ISD approves budget with 7 percent raise for teachers and additional parental leave
(El Paso, Texas -- June 23, 2022) – The El Paso Independent School District Board of Trustees approved the 2022-2023 budget that includes a robust compensation package. The budget approved Thursday at a regular board meeting, puts El Paso ISD on par with other Region 19 districts.
Teachers, librarians, counselors and nurses will see an average salary increase of 7 percent in the upcoming 2022-23 academic year, the highest increase in the district’s history. Starting salary for teachers with zero experience is now $56,975. The board also approved 10 paid additional days for parental leave – making it the only district in the region to offer this benefit.
“El Paso ISD recognizes that the strength of our schools lies in the strength of our employees. We need excellent teachers and staff for our students to thrive. This allows us to retain and attract exceptional team members and helps us develop to higher and greater levels of excellence,” said Daniel Call, Board of Trustees Vice President.
Trustees also approved a 5 percent increase for non-exempt (hourly) employees, a 4 percent salary increase from the mid-point for campus administrators and other professional staff. Directors and above will receive a 3 percent increase from mid-point. In addition, the compensation package includes a $1,000 employee retention stipend in the Nov. 15, 2022, paycheck for employees and a $1,500 in the June 30, 2023 paycheck.
“We worked closely with our Board of Trustees to develop a fair and fiscally responsible compensation plan for employees,” said Diana Sayavedra, Superintendent of Schools. “Excellent schools and outstanding student achievement start and end with great teaching. This compensation package shows our commitment to recruit and retain high-quality educators to ensure our students have an exemplary educational experience.”
In addition, the district will increase their Health Savings Account contribution for participating employees from $300 to $1,000. Minimum wage was also raised to $12 from $10.51.
Taking into account the general pay increase, retention stipend and the increase in the Health Savings Account, a teacher’s total compensation increase is approximately 12.5 percent.
Administration has developed a strategic budget aimed at building highly skilled employees throughout the district for future academic success. The district has leveraged resources to develop a well-rounded budget and increase efficiencies that will support the employee compensation package, while maintaining the integrity of all other functions.