DISD school board members voted unanimously to issue each full-time employee $1,250 and $625 for part-time staff members as a COVID-Retention Bonus at their Monday, Oct. 18, 2021 meeting.
According to Superintendent Dr. Todd Grandjean, the board wants to recognize and reward employees “based on the fact that every employee has given his/her heart and soul to the success of Devine ISD and its students.”
The bonus will come during the November pay period.
“You have approached your work and responsibilities with focus and valor through what have been the two toughest years in the history of education. The board extends its gratitude to your determination and strength in the face of adversity,” Grandjean said.
Even though COVID is at the center of the decision, that is not the only thing that has made this year especially challenging. Staff members have faced getting familiar with and implementing a new curriculum; substitute teachers are in short supply, as are bus drivers. There are many factors that add up.
“I know the Ciavarra staff is very grateful to the board for this decision. This year has been particularly challenging. A lot of things that by themselves would have been minor add up to major stressors. The CES faculty thanks the board and administration for recognizing the dedication of the staff of DISD,” Mrs. Brenda Gardner, CES principal, said.
The money is being funded through ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds received by the district from the federal government. There are no locally budgeted monies being used for this one-time bonus to staff.
“We do appreciate the school board giving each of our staff and faculty the $1,250 for full-time employees and $625 for part-time staff. These have been challenging years. It is great that we have a board that recognizes all of the staff and faculty for their dedication and hard work. It just feels good to be appreciated,” Athletic Director Chad Quisenberry said.
Bus drivers get hourly raise
Board members also raised the hourly pay rate for bus drivers to $18 an hour at this meeting.
If anyone is interested in becoming a DISD bus driver, he/she may apply online at www.devineisd.org. Click on the “employment” link on the right side of the home page.
District personnel will provide CDL training.