Charleston County School District proposes teacher salary increase: would make Charleston among top in the southeast region

CHARLESTON, S.C (WCBD) –Monday night, the Charleston County School Board held their first meeting of the new year where they discussed raising teacher salaries.

Last year, the Charleston County School District passed an $8,000 raise for the 2024 to 2025 school year. This made Charleston County the highest-paying school districts in South Carolina with a starting salary for teachers of around $56,000.

“I’ve been teaching for 32 years in the district, and never have we seen increases like this dedication like this from the board from the superintendent so we would just like to continue to see it keep pace with housing in the area, with cost of living in the area,” said Jody Stallings, with the Charleston Teacher Alliance.

Now teachers with 0 to 5 years of experience will see their salary increase to $64,782 and teachers with over 5 years of experience will see around a $4,000 salary increase.

“We know when our teachers are focused on teaching and learning and not how they’ll pay their bills or about how they’ll prepare dinner, or going to a second job, we know the children in the classroom get the most from focused teachers who are energized around the working elevating outcomes,” said Superintendent Anita Huggins.

The board staff said they could increase salaries without cutting funds across any program. This proposed salary raise will make Charleston teacher salaries competitive with areas such as Atlanta and Charlotte.

“We are already the highest paying in the state, but it will position us in the southeastern region to lead in the region. It will not only make us more competitive but allow us to select the very best and retain them,” said Leah Whatley, a CCSD board member.

In recent years, Charleston County has seen a decline in young people go into the teaching profession. With higher salaries, the goal is to have more teachers come to Charleston County and stay.

“It’s really important for young people to know it’s a feasible career option. It used to be a common understanding teacher weren’t paid what they deserve but I can see it’s starting to turn. I can see in my own school it has grown, and these students are very interested in being part of one of the best professions out there. I think if students see that it’s something they can afford to live and work and be part of their communities they will definitely pursue,” said Patrick Martin, a teacher with CCSD.

Charleston County School District is also considering expanding employee daycare for FY 2026.

The pay increase was proposed Monday night and will be voted on later this year.