CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) – Board of Education members for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools are scheduled to vote Tuesday on a proposal that would increase thousands of employees’ compensation to at least $20 per hour.
The increase would apply to both hourly and salaried staff members who are considered ‘classified staff.’ The title applies to more than 390 jobs within the district, including teaching assistants, mechanics, clerical staff members, bus monitors, and others.
More than 5,000 CMS employees are classified staff, and about 3,800 of those employees currently make less than $20 per hour.
The pay increase would be rolled out in phases. Organizers say the full plan may take up to three years to implement. Following the increase to $20 per hour, employees would be eligible for increases based on years of service (both in the profession and within the district), and annual adjustments.
If board members approve the increase, employees would receive a higher salary going forward and retroactive payment dating back to July 1, 2024.
The most recent comprehensive raise happened in 2007. District employees commissioned a compensation study in 2018, but did not implement widespread changes following the review.
Current board members said the compensation study is the first step in a longer process to address long-standing wage issues.
The Regular Board Meeting begins in closed session at 4 p.m. Tuesday and opens to the public at 6 p.m. in the Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center Chamber.
