CLEVELAND COUNTY TO ENHANCE TEACHER COMPENSATION

Cleveland County Commissioners and the Cleveland County Board of Education, as part of this years budget, jointly recommend the raising of the local teacher’s supplement. Teacher supplement is a locally-funded percentage of the state base added to a certified teacher’s salary. Teacher supplements are critical because they serve as the only local impact on teacher pay and differentiate what county districts can offer to their teachers. The recommended increase to the supplement is 2% which raises the total rate to 7.75%. In early 2021, after being identified as a priority by both boards, teachers were given a 2% increase. 

“Teachers have one of the hardest yet most important jobs. We recognize attracting top talent is a priority and we need to offer the funds to be able to accomplish that mission.” said Kevin  Gordon, Cleveland County Board of Commissioners Chairman. 

The cost of the supplements is approximately $750,000 per 1% increase. Local supplement increases are funded from local sources. Certified teacher supplements range from roughly $2,700 to $4,900 based on education level and years of service. This year, a first-year teacher in Cleveland County with a bachelor’s degree and no prior years of experience will earn $35,000 in state funds and a $2,700 teacher supplement. 

“The School Board is thankful to the Board of Commissioners for their continued support.” said Robert Queen, Chairman of the Cleveland County Board of Education. “Teachers have a direct impact on shaping a child’s future. Attracting and retaining highly qualified teachers is critical to the success of our county.” 

The new supplement percentage will begin for the 2022-2023 school year. The Commissioners and School Board intend to continue to grow the supplement in subsequent years with a goal to achieve a supplement percentage of 10% by 2025.