The Vance County Commission has a choice this year. Approve a budget that respects and retains Vance County educators through better pay, or maintain the status quo. Vance County Schools has not increased the local teacher supplement in at least 25 years. VCS bus drivers, teaching assistants, cafeteria staff, custodians, and other classified workers have never received a county supplement. Better pay would improve staff morale and student outcomes by making Vance County Schools more competitive compared to neighboring counties in its ability to recruit and retain excellent and experienced educators.

The Vance County Association of Educators urges the Vance County Commission to fully fund the 2025-26 budget request proposed to the Board of Education Superintendent Dr. Bennett on April 7. Full funding will allow VCS to:

• Double the local teacher supplement to $5,000.
• Increase classified staff pay by 10%.

After 25+ years of undervaluing educators, Vance County can and must do more to support educators and students.