Schools

Despite Projected $140-Million Deficit, FCPS Superintendent Proposes Teacher Pay Raises

The pay hikes will likely cost the district around $42 million on top of the projected deficit of $140 million.

by Jennifer van der Kleut

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Karen Garza told an audience at JEB Stuart High School in Falls Church Wednesday night that, despite the district's projected $140-million deficit, she is including a proposal for teacher pay hikes in her budget for next year, the Washington Post reports.

The public talk was part of Garza's ongoing "Listening Tour."

The Post indicates Garza's proposed expanded employee compensation package would likely cost the district another $42 million on top of the projected $140-million shortfall. However, Garza told the audience that getting Fairfax County teacher salaries on par with other districts within the next five years is one of her top priorities, in order to boost employee morale and make the district a more attractive prospect for teachers seeking employment.

Garza told the audience that dealing with the projected deficit is an ongoing and "daunting challenge."

See the full article on the Washington Post here.

TELL US - What do you think of Garza's proposal to increase teacher salaries while the district faces such a deficit? Weigh in, in the comments below.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Greater Alexandria