Polk County teachers, staff to receive pay boost next school year after funding hike approved

Polk County public school employees will receive an immediate pay boost next school year after voters approved a property tax increase expected to generate $80 million.Polk County tax approvalPolk County voters approved a one-mill property tax increase Tuesday to fund teacher retention, school safety, and core student programs. The tax measure generates approximately $80 million annually, with $13.6 million — an 18% cut — earmarked directly for area charter schools.The average homeowner in the county will pay an extra $259.42 per year under the measure. District officials said the revenue stream will run through June 2031.Education funding breakdownThe approved tax structure delivers a $3,700 boost to base salaries across the board for teachers, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and other support personnel. Supporters noted that the base raise will likely climb in future years as overall county property values rise.The ballot measure aims to bring employee pay in line with surrounding sc