Middleburgh Central School has begun taking a look at increasing substitute pay.
All schools are competing for the same, limited pool of substitutes, MCS Superintendent Mark Place said Wednesday—but Middleburgh pays the lowest and in some cases, less than McDonald’s.
“What will it take for us to be competitive?” he asked.
Additionally the Department of Labor has adjusted the minimum wage to $14.20 beginning December 31, and $15 by 2025.
The existing hourly rates, followed by the proposed change, follow:
Certified teacher--$16.15 to $19.23.
Non-certified teacher--$13.84 to $16.92.
Nurse--$16.15 to $19.23.
Licensed teaching assistant--$14 to $15.
Teacher aide/bus aide/monitor/clerical--$13.25 to $15.
Bus driver--$20; unchanged.
Cleaner--$13.50 to $15.
School board members asked about how the new rates would compare with those of existing staff; it’s something he’ll be taking a look at and, if necessary, adjusting, Mr. Place said.
MCS expects to take another look at the suggested rates in November.
They’d go into place January 1.