During an April 8 workshop, Johnna Walker, Allen ISD assistant superintendent of human resources, outlined three potential pay increase options for teachers and staff, ranging from 1% to 3%.
The aim is to boost starting salaries from $59,500 to $60,400. As a result, the Allen ISD Board of Trustees is set to vote on April 29 to determine whether to adjust teacher compensation.
According to Allen American, this discussion comes as Allen ISD grapples with declining enrollment, leading to staff reductions. While the district implemented a 5% raise for all staff last year, this year's raises are expected to be more modest, in line with neighboring districts.
"This is an impossible situation the state has put us in," said Trustee Amy Gandt.
Adding to the challenge is the expiration of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds, prompting the district to seek efficiencies and potential budget adjustments.
Chief Financial Officer Brian Carter reported that while the 2022-23 budget had 4.1 months in operating funds, projections suggest a decline, with the 2023-24 budget expected to end in a deficit. Looking ahead to the 2024-25 budget, Allen ISD anticipates having around 3.3 months of operating expenses, falling short of the board's three-month operating funds policy.
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