The Cobb County School District has proposed a new budget that includes significant raises for its employees, reduced property tax rates, and a pay cut only for full-time permanent staff members. The raises range from 7.5% to 12.1%, which district officials have described as a "historic" figure.
Cobb County Superintendent Chris Ragsdale commented on the proposal: "We are committed to providing the best possible education for our students while also supporting our dedicated educators with competitive salaries and benefits."
In addition to salary increases, the tentative budget includes a $500,000 investment in Georgia's BEST program. This initiative will allow 500 Cobb educators to obtain advanced degrees at no cost to them.
Dr. Susan Johnson, Director of Professional Learning at Cobb County Schools shared her excitement about this opportunity: "I am thrilled that we can offer such an exceptional professional development program like Georgia's BEST here in Cobb County. It not only benefits our teachers but ultimately enhances student learning throughout the district."
To further bolster safety measures within schools across the county, an additional 11 school resource officers will be added under the new budget proposal along with $339,000 allocated toward annual renewal of its crisis alert system.
Cobb County School Board Chair Randy Scamihorn praised these steps taken by the board saying: "Safety is always one of our top priorities in ensuring every child has access to quality education without fear or anxiety within their school environment."
Despite achieving what many consider historic progress through this proposed plan concerning employee welfare and security enhancements within institutions; there remains controversy surrounding pay cuts directed solely towards full-time permanent staff members.
Jennifer Smithwick-Korzeniewski – President of Teachers Association expressed concern over these specific reductions stating: “While we appreciate recognition given through wage increases focused primarily on temporary positions; it’s disheartening to see a lack of similar support for our long-term, full-time employees."
The Cobb County School Board will continue discussions on the proposed budget in upcoming meetings before reaching a final decision. With both positive and negative aspects present within this proposal, it remains crucial for all involved parties to weigh these implications carefully as they strive towards providing an optimal educational environment.