HCISD Approves Pay Raises for All Staff

On Wednesday, June 25, the HCISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved a balanced budget for 2025-2026. As well, the Board also approved the Compensation Plan that includes raises for every Harlingen CISD employee for the 2025-2026 school year.

“We thank our state leaders for the incredible investment in public schools. Together with the additional funds from the state and from our local funding contribution, we are able to create a comprehensive Compensation Plan,” said Board President Dr. Nolan Perez. “We are very grateful for the dedication, love, and hard work our employees give to our students and schools every single day. From campus leaders and teachers to custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, office personnel and many more, every single staff member is vital to the inspiration and success of our students and district. We want our employees to know they are respected and deeply appreciated.”

Following thoughtful discussion during the most recent budget workshop, the Board of Trustees adjusted pay raise percentages for all employees. Highlights of the 2025-2026 Compensation Plan include the following:

• Pay increase for teachers include:

  • Teachers with 3 to 4 years of experience will receive an increase of $2500 and those with 5 or

    more years will receive an increase of $5000.

  • Teachers with 1 to 2 years of experience will receive an increase of $1200 and $1400

    respectively.

  • Starting teacher pay was increased to $55,000.

• Clerical and auxiliary staff will receive a 4% increase of the midpoint, while administrators will receive a 2.5% increase of the midpoint.

• The stipend for elementary teachers servicing bilingual students has been increased.

• Substitute teacher pay has also been adjusted offering a higher daily rate.

During discussions regarding the 2025-2026 Compensation Plan, the Board of Trustees took investment in our employees a step further reflecting more than just numbers. This year’s compensation plan also reflects a culture of listening, valuing, and investing in the people who make HCISD an exceptional place to work.

Earlier this spring, our Superintendent of Schools launched a series of Listening Tours where she visited with campus and department personnel to hear directly from staff across various roles. The insights and feedback are already shaping decisions and driving district planning.

One significant change influenced by feedback from stakeholders will be expanding the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) for the 2025-2026 school year, providing more teachers the opportunity to earn additional pay based on performance and impact in the classroom. Additionally, to support the needs of our employees and their families, this year HCISD will give employees’ children priority consideration for the district’s Pre-K3 program and the district's after-school care program, H.E.L.P.

“Thanks to intentional stewardship during financially difficult times, our commitment to fiscal responsibility has positioned the district to provide these well-deserved salary increases,” said Superintendent Dr. Veronica Kortan. “Our employees are the backbone of our mission and a powerful force behind our students’ success. Their dedication and care make a lasting difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. We are proud to invest in our people and grateful for the Board’s support of this plan. ”