A huge financial relief is coming for Broward County schools teachers, principals, and educational support staff after unanimous vote results in salary hike

Broward County, Florida – In a decisive and unanimous vote, the Broward County School Board has approved a 3% salary increase for thousands of eligible school employees, marking a significant investment in the district’s workforce. The decision, made last Tuesday, is expected to provide financial relief to teachers, principals, and educational support staff as they continue their dedication to student success.

The pay raise will apply to members of three key employee groups: the Broward Teachers Union Education Professionals, the Broward Principals and Assistants Association, and the Educational Support Management Association of Broward. Notably, the increase is not a temporary bonus but a permanent adjustment to base salaries, retroactively effective from July 1, 2024.

A win for educators

Following the vote, union representatives and school officials gathered to express their gratitude and highlight the impact of the decision. Lisa Maxwell, Executive Director of the Broward Principals and Assistants Association, called the move a “step in the right direction” and a sign of the district’s commitment to its employees.

For many teachers, the pay raise signals hope for a more stable financial future. Broward Teachers Union President Anna Fusco emphasized the importance of fair compensation, noting that educators often take on multiple jobs just to make ends meet.

“There’s a hope that our salaries are growing, that we’re able to afford it and get off those two and three jobs and just be fully committed to our students because that’s what it’s about. Making sure we’re in our classrooms and we’re doing this, we’re smiling, we’re happy. We want to be there for our students, and that’s what it’s about,” said Anna Fusco, President of the Broward Teachers’ Union, WSVN reported.

A $31 million investment in the workforce

The pay increases, which total $31 million, represent a major financial commitment from the district. Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn credited the district’s Chief Financial Officer for finding ways to restructure the budget and prioritize salary improvements.

“So this is just a start. It is a priority for us to continue to increase the percentage of compensation that we provide to all of our employees in the future,” Hepburn said.

“Please note that these are increases to base salary, not a one-time bonus, and retroactive to July 1, 2024,” said Broward Schools Board Member Debra Hixon.

A positive and unified moment

Tuesday’s meeting was marked by broad agreement, a rare sight in education policy discussions. Board members, union leaders, and school administrators shared a moment of unity, acknowledging the vital role educators and staff play in the district’s success.

“We thank you for equitable pay raises, and we thank you for the commitment that you’ve made to the most important people in your school district and that’s the people,” said Mark Kaplan, Coral Glades High School Principal.

More pay increases on the horizon?

While this salary adjustment is a victory for many, it may not be the last. The board is expected to vote next week on potential pay raises for additional employee groups, signaling an ongoing effort to ensure fair wages across the district.

For now, Broward County educators can look forward to higher paychecks—an investment that many hope will lead to greater retention, higher morale, and a stronger educational environment for students.

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