Caddo School Board Approves 6% Pay Raise For All Employees

Good news for teachers and other Caddo Parish school employees. The Caddo School Board has approved a 6% across-the-board pay raise for all employees. The pay increase is part of the district’s 2026-2027 budget which goes into effect on July 1.

Several alternatives were discussed as a way to give more money to those on the lower end of the pay scale, but after the dust settled, the board went with the plan proposed by staff and the superintendent.

District 1 member Steve Umling tried to bring forth an alternative plan but he could never get it to a vote. There was heated discussion before board chairman Don Little ruled Umling’s proposal was not properly made. Umling suggested a 7% pay raise be given to all employees with a cap of $5,000 dollars. That would mean employees who make over $70,000 would only get the max of $5 grand.

But the board never got a chance to vote on that idea.

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Reaction to Caddo Pay Raise from Leaders

Superintendent Keith Burton says “this raise is a direct reflection of our belief in the people who make Caddo Parish Public Schools work. The progress of this district is the result of the commitment, skill and care of our employees, and we must continue to invest in the people making that progress possible.”

Board President Don Little says “we have said many times that our employees are one of the district’s greatest investments. With this budget, the Board is taking action to recognize their work and help Caddo remain competitive in recruiting and retaining quality employees.”

There is still some uncertainty about a proposed one-time stipend for this year. Governor Jeff Landry has issued an executive order calling on all school systems to give teachers a $2,000 one-time payment, but Burton tells KEEL News the Governor has said district that do give pay raises can be exempt from giving stipends. But Burton is asking for the Governor’s decision in writing rather that a social media post.