Multiple School Boards Approve Wage Increases Across States

School districts in Iowa are approving wage increases for teachers and staff through a series of new union agreements and board decisions. In Sioux City, agreements with multiple unions and non-union groups will provide teachers with a $360 boost to base and longevity pay, support personnel with hourly increases, and raises for operations, maintenance, and bus drivers, all effective July 1, 2025. Similarly, the Knoxville School Board approved wage increases ranging from 2.5% to 5% for a broad range of school employees, aiming to clarify contracts for the upcoming academic year. These decisions reflect broader efforts to retain and support educational staff across the state. The Sioux City wage hikes apply to both union and non-union employees, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to compensation. These moves are intended to both reward current staff and address ongoing staffing and retention challenges.