Maricopa Unified Unveils Major Pay Increases for All Staff

In a significant decision, the Maricopa Unified School District (MUSD) board unanimously approved a 5% pay raise for its 1,173 employees, amounting to an additional cost of $3.3 million. This move emphasizes the district’s commitment to supporting its staff amidst rising living costs.

Alongside the salary increase, the district allocated $585,533.23 to counter inflation affecting goods, services, and utilities. This budget includes a notable 14% increase in health insurance costs, which, however, does not extend to families’ dependents. Board Vice President Patti Coutré expressed concerns during the meeting, highlighting the financial burden this places on employees.

Coutré remarked, “That’s a huge hit,” stressing the importance of addressing the health benefit disparities.

The district introduced a new wellness program, designed to enhance employee health through expanded screenings and strategic partnerships with local health providers. Additionally, each school will have a wellness ambassador, further promoting health initiatives throughout the district.

In a proactive approach, MUSD Chief Financial Officer Jacob Harmon and Superintendent of Human Resources Tom Beckett conducted “road shows” to engage with teachers about the new pay structure and to address their concerns.

With an influx of families moving to Maricopa, the district is experiencing increased demand for teachers. In response, MUSD is actively recruiting additional staff, including:

• Three new teachers and a resource teacher at Santa Cruz/Santa Rosa School
• A developmental preschool teacher at Saddleback Elementary
• Six elementary reading specialists to serve the district
• A “Planning Principal” at Sorrento Model School
• A new district athletic director

The Planning Principal role encompasses various responsibilities, including academic planning, curriculum development, and instructional strategies, as part of the New Model School concept aimed at fostering partnerships with community organizations.

As athletics expand in local high schools, interviews for the athletic director position are currently underway. This role offers an annual salary of $190,000, with a hiring recommendation anticipated at the March 26 board meeting.

Superintendent Tracey Lopeman’s salary will increase to $194,118.75 due to this pay raise. Last June, she received a performance increase of $8,504.25. Additionally, Lopeman benefits from a car allowance, a discretionary stipend, health insurance compensation, and other financial perks totaling substantial amounts.