Posted by
Tanya Arja or Jennifer Holton
on
9/8/2023 2:03:00 PM
For Immediate Release
Contact: Tanya Arja or Jennifer Holton
Hillsborough County Public Schools
Office of Communications
813-272-4060
Tampa, Fl. (September 8, 2023) –Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) has reached a tentative agreement with the Hillsborough School Employees Federation (HSEF). The total package offered by the school district and agreed upon by HSEF union leadership amounts to $11.5 million dollars in recurring salary increases.
Under this agreement, two district positions that have been in critical need will receive a 16% salary increase. The new starting pay for bus drivers will move to $18.65 an hour, a competitive wage with school districts across the state. Starting pay for school security officer 2 will be increased to $21.45 an hour.
All other employees represented by HSEF will receive a salary increase. The salary adjustments will be retroactive to July 1, 2023. The employees represented in HSEF include those in the areas of transportation, student nutrition services, security, maintenance, and custodial services.
Interim Superintendent Van Ayres and School Board Members have been committed to improving compensation packages for district employees in an effort to retain and recruit a highly diverse workforce. The district values the dedication of our employees who have gone above and beyond to ensure the success of students.
“Showing our employees that they are appreciated has been a top priority for me and our School Board Members. Salary increases are one step in that direction. The School Board and I remain focused on a supportive organizational culture - where employees can collaborate and create the best educational opportunities for our students. Together we are Hillsborough Strong,” said Interim Superintendent Van Ayres.
“This is a significant day for our employees. This is the most money that has ever been negotiated for the employees we represent. We thank Superintendent Ayres, the School Board, and the entire bargaining team for prioritizing the employees who are supporting students every day. This will go a long way in showing employees they are appreciated,” said Iran Alicea, President of Hillsborough School Employees Federation.
It is important to note this tentative agreement was reached at the negotiating table and must still be ratified by the employees and approved by the Hillsborough County School Board.