Image courtesy Pixabay.

We are incredibly grateful to our Sarasota County community for their overwhelming support of the recent millage referendum, which received an impressive 84% approval rating—the highest in Florida. Your trust and investment demonstrate our shared commitment to educational excellence. This remarkable endorsement is crucial in helping us provide competitive compensation packages that attract and retain top-quality educators. 

Few factors influence student outcomes as significantly as the quality of teachers in the classroom. Sarasota County Schools has substantially increased starting teacher salaries through a historic contract settlement and launched a comprehensive two-year compensation plan. This landmark agreement places our district at the forefront of teacher compensation, with starting salaries set to reach $60,000 beginning next school year. This highlights the critical role educators play in shaping the future of our students and community.

Recruiting and retaining exceptional teachers and staff is central to any school district's success. Elevating teacher compensation makes our schools more competitive and affirms our commitment to valuing and investing in our educators. The new contract, which includes an average annual raise of 5%, will provide a significant increase of over $7,500 for our teachers over two years. This reflects our dedication to fair and competitive pay that rewards the expertise and commitment of our instructional staff.

Quality teaching is one of the most influential factors in student achievement and engagement. By investing in our educators, we are investing in the future success of every student. The enhanced compensation package will help attract and retain talented educators while supporting ongoing professional development and fostering a culture of excellence throughout our district.

This milestone has only been possible through the collective efforts of our educators, union leadership, administrators, and community stakeholders. By investing in our teachers, we are laying a strong foundation for a vibrant educational system that prepares students for success in an ever-evolving world.

Looking ahead, Sarasota County Schools remains committed to continuous improvement and innovation. Continuing the millage referendum and contract settlement represents a significant step forward and a catalyst for future growth and success. By nurturing a supportive environment where teachers can thrive, we are positioning our district as a model of educational excellence.

The success of our schools is rooted in the strength of our community. We thank you for your support and belief in investing in high-quality teachers. Together, we are building a brighter future for Sarasota County Schools—one where every student can reach their full potential. Let us continue to champion our educators and celebrate their transformative impact on our students and community.

Terry Connor is the superintendent of Sarasota County Schools.

Image courtesy Pixabay.