School Workers Across Counties See Varied Raises

School employees in several districts and systems are receiving pay increases, though the size and terms vary. Marion County, Florida, approved roughly 1% raises for non-union staff, citing budget pressures and state funding shortfalls, while Fort Wayne Community Schools approved a 1% increase plus a $500 stipend; eligible Fort Wayne educators will average about 3% when step increases are included. Polk County employees will receive a $3,700 base-pay increase beginning next school year, funded by a voter-approved property tax increase. In Victoria, Australia, a new agreement provides public school staff raises of 28.3% to 32.4% over four years, along with improved working conditions.