50¢ June 16, 20222020
The Jackson (TN) Links, Incorporated provides 175 Books to Washington-Douglas Head-Start Program Page 13 METRO NASHVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS EMPLOYEE Superintendent seeks competitive pay for JMCSS employees RESIGNS DUE TO LOW SALARY - Page 9
Board approves continuation budget as strategic plans continue
Educators, Others Respond In response to the Metro Nashville Schools employee’s resignation during a council meeting, this issue is part of a state wide and national challenge for school districts. Our state lags behind the nation in teacher pay and in education funding. The state pays about $11,139 per student ranking 44th out of 51 states and the District of Columbia, according to a 2021 report by the Education Law Center. Tennessee spends nearly $4k less per student than national average. With the increase in the cost of living and increased insurance cost, teacher and support staff compensation becomes a critical issue and the pandemic probably made it more intense. During the past 18 months, the JMCSS has given a salary increase, paid out three bonuses, and absorbed last year’s insurance increase but collectively we must do better to retain experienced teachers and support staff. During our recent budget discussions, we were made aware of the fact that over 80% of our budget is comprised of salaries and benefits. With that being said, we are currently in the process of adjusting our budget and revising our salary schedules to encourage retention and increase base pay. The ultimate goal is an increase in student performance. James ‘Pete’ Johnson Board Chairman - School Board District 1 “James W. Johnson” <Jwjohnson2@jmcss.org> Pictured above (l to r):Morris Merriweather, Doris Black and Dr. Charles H. Clark, Jr.
22 YEARS LATER:
Former MPD officer indicted for sexually assaulting woman on duty Page 5
Bridges Randle
“We’re pretty far behind as it relates to teacher salaries. We have to go back and be competitive with salaries across the board,” Dr. Marlon King said. Page 10
Miss Jackson Juneteenth 2022, Megan Hicks has made several appearances since being crowned Queen. See where she stopped first. Page 7