CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is exploring the idea of raising its minimum wage to $20 per hour.
The proposed raises would be for classified staff, such as bus drivers, teacher assistants and custodians to name a few. As of now, more than 3,800 district employees make less than $20 an hour.
“My number one concern I received with employees is concerns about compensation,” said Superintendent Crystal Hill, in her second year leading the district.
It’s a problem CMS leaders haven’t addressed in nearly two decades. The district hired a firm to do a compensation study, and representatives presented their findings at the Board of Education meeting Tuesday night.
They recommend a three-phase approach with the first starting in February. Phase 1 will require more than $25 million to raise the salaries of classified staff members based on market rate and experience.
Those who conducted the study said they often find new employees make more than veteran employees.
“That’s going to affect morale,” said Ricky Lopes, one of the people behind the study. “You’re working side by side with someone making more money than you but you have the same experience.”
The suggested plan will bring everyone to at least $20 per hour. The money for Phase 1 is already available in the current Mecklenburg County budget.
“It’s not perfect but does represent best at this time and is a step in the right direction,” said Hill.
If the board decides to move forward, this would be the first time in about 18 years the district has implemented the results of a compensation study. Members are expected to vote on the matter Jan. 28
