HAGERSTOWN, Md.– Budget concerns dominated a recent Washington County Board of Education work session and public hearing, as teachers and staff warned that proposed salary increases and rising healthcare costs could worsen retention issues across the school system.
The meeting began with recognitions of student and staff achievements, including all-state musicians, national art award winners and educational support personnel.
Board members also approved the agenda and multiple sets of meeting minutes unanimously before moving into the superintendent’s report and public comment portion of the meeting.
Budget concerns take center stage
Much of the meeting focused on public feedback regarding the proposed fiscal year budget, particularly a projected average salary increase of about 1 percent for employees.
Speakers said the increase does not keep pace with inflation or rising healthcare costs, which are expected to increase by about 10 percent.
Several teachers described working beyond contracted hours, taking second jobs and paying for classroom supplies out of pocket.
“One percent is not enough,” one speaker said, noting that higher costs for housing, groceries and transportation effectively reduce take-home pay.
Others warned the compensation gap could drive educators to neighboring districts offering higher pay.
Some speakers said they are already considering leaving the county or the profession altogether due to financial strain.
Support staff highlight wage challenges
Educational support personnel, including paraprofessionals, custodians and bus drivers, also raised concerns about wages.
One speaker said many support staff earn less than $25 per hour, with a 1 percent raise equating to only a small increase in annual income.
“This is not about extras. This is about whether the people who support students every day can afford to live in the communities they serve,” the speaker said.
Staff also pointed to competition from private employers and nearby school systems offering higher wages and better benefits.
Calls for transparency and leadership planning
A representative from a local education advocacy group urged the board to provide more transparency regarding its plan to hire a new superintendent.
The speaker referenced concerns raised during the board’s 2022 hiring process and asked officials to clearly outline the timeline and approach for selecting the next leader.
Concerns over immigration-related facility
Some speakers also addressed a proposed federal immigration processing facility in Washington County, raising concerns about its potential impact on students and families.
A representative from the Washington County Teachers Association called for consideration of a “safe zones” policy to protect immigrant students and ensure access to education without fear.
Benefits and healthcare issues raised
Speakers also discussed rising healthcare costs and benefit changes, warning that shifting more costs onto employees could further strain staff.
One longtime employee said reducing benefits or increasing out-of-pocket costs could make it harder to retain qualified educators.
Student voice highlights importance of programs
A student speaker emphasized the value of school music programs, describing how participation improves engagement, attendance and academic performance.
The student said music programs help build community and provide opportunities not found in traditional classroom settings.
Recognitions and achievements
Despite the budget concerns, the board recognized numerous accomplishments during the meeting.
Students were honored for selection to Maryland All-State music ensembles and national art competitions, including Gold Key awards.
Staff members were also recognized, including the district’s Educational Support Personnel of the Year and finalists, highlighting the contributions of non-teaching employees.
Two educators received statewide recognition for excellence in music education, including a hall of fame induction and a leadership award.
Looking ahead
The board is expected to continue budget discussions in upcoming meetings, including a dedicated budget hearing later in the session.
Speakers throughout the evening urged officials to prioritize employee compensation and workforce stability as part of the final budget decisions.
