CCSD teachers pulling for pay increase ahead of budget approval

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A group of teachers and staff members who work for the Charleston County School District said they want to see a pay increase included in next year’s budget.

Patrick Martin teaches high school English at CCSD. He shared how educators have benefitted from a $5,000 salary increase and $5,000 bonus, which were approved by the board of trustees last year.

“You can see that it has ignited a greater sense of value and importance of our teachers, while also helping them pay their bills, afford groceries, and afford housing,” Martin said. “It’s allowed people, as you heard last year in the testimony, to have babies. People were holding off starting their families because they just weren’t making enough money.”

Martin said it is now time for phase 2 of this effort. He was joined by other teachers, district staff, and community members outside of CCSD headquarters to show support for Superintendent Anita Huggins’ recent 2025 budget proposal.

He explained it would incorporate at $5,000 ESSER-funded bonus in the teacher salary pay scale and increase school-based classified staff salaries.

“I stand today as a retired educator in support of my colleagues who are currently in the classroom. Whether they are new or seasoned, they deserve the pay,” said former CCSD teacher, Willette Scott Ash.

The message was echoed inside the board of trustees meeting by several speakers during the public comment section.

“I cannot imagine a group of people more dedicated to their occupation. I believe that the $5,000 bonus added last year should become a permanent part of their salaries, at least,” said a student who spoke up.

According to Martin, the higher pay has helped to reduce the number of vacancies from 60 to 15.

“This has provided proof that compensation can alleviate the teacher retention and recruitment crisis that’s plaguing our classrooms,” Martin said. The group also advocated for a weighted student-based funding model which was also included in the budget proposal.

According to the agenda, next year’s budget will continue to be discussed at meetings throughout April and May before it goes to the board for first reading on May 20^th.