The Southwest Independent School District (SWISD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved the 2023-2024 compensation plan package for teachers and staff during the regular board meeting on Tuesday, June 20, 2022. The comprehensive plan encompasses significant raises and retention stipends, reinforcing the district's dedication to recognizing and rewarding its valued employees.
Under the approved plan, all teachers, librarians, nurses, counselors, social workers, and administrators will receive a 5% raise. Clerical and instructional support staff and auxiliary employees will receive an even higher raise of 6%. These raises demonstrate SWISD's commitment to maintaining a competitive compensation structure that attracts and retains top talent in the education sector. District leaders also value tenure, and this compensation plan provides some of the highest salaries in the area. For example, a teacher with 20 years of experience will earn $70,372 (with retention stipend), and a teacher with 25 years of experience will earn $73,372 (with retention stipend) under this compensation plan.
"Serving as a pillar in our community, SWISD recognizes the immense value our staff brings to the table. We understand that a competitive compensation plan is just one facet of showing appreciation to our dedicated and loyal employees," stated Sylvester Vasquez Jr., President of the SWISD Board. "As a board, we are committed to doing everything in our power to financially support our staff and provide them with the recognition they deserve, for they are the caretakers of our children."
In addition to the raises, the Board of Trustees approved two retention stipends totaling $2,500 for all employees meeting the specified criteria. These stipends further acknowledge the dedication and commitment of SWISD's exceptional workforce. Highlighting the district's focus on promoting attendance, the compensation plan introduces an attendance incentive, encouraging employees to prioritize attendance and contribute to an optimal learning environment. Campus staff members can earn a $500 incentive if the school increases average daily attendance by 2% from the previous year.
"We prioritize both the well-being of our employees and student attendance. This year, we are thrilled to introduce an attendance incentive that empowers our employees to earn additional rewards for improving attendance," explained Ida Sudolcan, Vice President of the SWISD Board. "At SWISD, we operate as a team, supporting one another, and through this attendance incentive, we reinforce our commitment to both employee and student attendance."
"I have had the pleasure of being in SWISD for a short time, and during this period, I have witnessed the incredible individuals who work in this district. What makes this district truly special is the compassionate and dedicated people who are part of it. The board recognizes the exceptional value of our staff, which is why they were eager to approve one of the largest raises in Bexar County and the largest raise in SWISD's history. While we understand that money isn't everything, we are committed to doing our best to assist with the rising cost of living expenses.", said SWISD Superintendent Dr. Jeanette Ball.
The complete compensation plan is expected to incur a cost of approximately $5.3 million for the district. In the past, the compensation plan was typically approved in July. However, this year, school leaders wanted to ensure that the staff knew they were highly valued and appreciated, and therefore decided to share the plan with them earlier in the year. Employees will receive the approved pay increase determined by their contract start date for the upcoming 2023-24 school year, with some employees even receiving the increase as early as July 2023.
All pay increases for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year will be based on the midpoint for each respective pay grade, ensuring fairness and consistency in implementing the plan.
Southwest Independent School District (SWISD) is widely recognized as one of the highest-paying districts in the Bexar County area, offering competitive salaries and an exceptional benefits package. Employees at SWISD enjoy comprehensive benefits, including dental and vision coverage, life insurance, paid vacation, and access to an enticing employee rewards program. This rewards program establishes partnerships with realtors, dealerships, restaurants, and more, providing exclusive discounts and perks to SWISD staff members.