Asheville Board Deliberates Bonus Payments for Storm Recovery Efforts
In a recent meeting, the Asheville City Board of Education took significant yet cautious steps regarding a bonus plan for nearly 200 district staff who volunteered their time during the recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene. The storm berated the area from September 27 to October 12, and the board decided to postpone the vote on this proposal after a unanimous decision of 7-0 on November 12.
Backing Staff Efforts
The idea for this bonus emerged initially during a work session on November 4, championed by Asheville City Schools Superintendent Maggie Fehrman. She highlighted the extraordinary commitment shown by staff members during challenging circumstances. “Staff went above and beyond the call of duty, and I want to recognize their hard work,” Fehrman emphasized, suggesting that the bonus should be designated for those who contributed directly to school recovery efforts.
All staff had received their base pay while schools were closed, but the bonus would recognize the additional efforts made during the recovery period after the storm. For classified staff—like bus drivers, nutrition staff, and maintenance workers—Fehrman proposed that they receive their hourly rate for hours worked, along with potential overtime. Certified staff, on the other hand, would receive $100 for every eight hours worked, with options to convert volunteer hours into paid time off on non-instructional days.
Fiscal Responsibility Concerns
However, before making any commitments, board member James Carter, who is set to leave his position soon, raised concerns regarding the financial implications. “I know the money will have to come out of our fund balance in order to pay for this. I want to be as fiscally responsible as possible while I’m here,” he expressed. His sentiments prompted a motion to table the vote until further financial details could be gathered.
The proposal faced questions about the fairness of determining which staff members receive bonuses, particularly with varying degrees of volunteerism amid the storm’s aftermath. Board member Amy Ray voiced concern that school principals, tasked with identifying eligible staff, might create friction among colleagues.
Support and Survey Insights
Adding another layer to the discussion, Timothy Lloyd, president of the Asheville Association of Educators, presented survey results indicating that a strong majority—76%—of responding staff members supported the bonus plan as proposed. The survey addressed concerns about fairness and the potential for executive leaders to also receive bonuses amidst ongoing budget constraints.
“While we understand these concerns, we do not believe that the perfect should be the enemy of the good,” Lloyd stated, encouraging the board to consider the positive effects of recognizing staff contributions. Board Chair George Sieburg suggested drafting a policy for similar situations in the future to streamline the process.
The board agreed to revisit the discussion at an upcoming meeting on December 4, 2023, when members hope to settle on a plan that acknowledges the essential role staff played in recovery efforts while keeping financial stewardship at the forefront.
Renaming the Montford Avenue Campus
In a separate agenda item, the board made a historic decision to rename the Montford Avenue campus to the William Randolph Campus, reaffirming its significance as a former site of education. The renaming pays tribute to William Randolph, an important figure in Asheville’s educational history, while the campus itself will now host a new alternative school to serve the community’s needs.
The Asheville City Board of Education continues to balance fiscal responsibility and appreciation for its dedicated staff. As discussions progress, the outcome of the bonus proposal will undoubtedly reflect the district’s commitment to recognizing those who go the extra mile for the benefit of students and the community.
