Mill Levy
Attract and Retain Quality Staff
The key to any successful organization and community is its people. We are investing in the recruitment and retention of Colorado's best talent.
Salary Correction
Prior to 2021, teachers in Weld RE-5J had a base (starting with no experience) salary of approximately $37,200, the fourth lowest in our area. This meant a teacher could apply for similar jobs in the area and be offered more money at almost any other district. The low pay affected our ability to recruit and retain the best staff and administration, which was disheartening.
After compiling the data of the surrounding districts, the board voted on December 14, 2020, to raise the district’s base salary to allow us to be more competitive. This correction enables our district to be more appealing to job applicants and to offer equitable pay for the retention of our staff members. Through our efforts to recognize the high-quality contributions of our staff, we are able to focus on advancing teaching and learning while cultivating a positive climate in which to work and learn.
To directly address the district goal of attracting and retaining quality staff, a 6% retroactive salary increase for professional educators and preschool staff was approved — meaning these employees received a lump sum payment in January 2021 for the first six months of the school year and moved to the new salary schedule on January 01, 2021. At the same time, paraprofessionals/teacher aides and health clerks received hourly pay increases and were given the opportunity to work full time with benefits (if desired). This change equates to a 14.42% increase.
Additional Weld RE-5J employee groups received pay increases beginning January 01, 2021, as part of the salary corrections as follows: licensed transportation staff 10.66% and secretaries and library aides 17.78%. The administration team did not receive salary corrections.
Provide additional safety, security, and mental health personnel
We are ensuring that all of our facilities and equipment are safe, secure, and ready for learning. We are adding mental health professionals to support the ongoing work towards a healthier community.
Expand Career and Technical Education
We are investing in the future of our students and community through robust Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings
Replace Buses
We will be replacing buses that have reached the end of their service life and maintain transportation safety.
Mrs. Boreson leading her Interact students at the Johnstown YMCA as they mentor elementary students.
Replace Buses
Message from the Bus Barn:
"The buses we received this year were gas buses that replaced two older units that were not cost effective to maintain and operate. The cost on a new single gas bus was around $113,000.00. We chose to go with gas buses instead of diesel as we have had numerous issues with the DEF systems in the diesels. The gas bus we have is doing an amazing job! Also, we have been fortunate that the Mill Levy will provide us with $250,000.00 each year to replace the rest of our aging fleet," said James Long, Weld RE-5J Routing Manager.
New Buses
2021 Bluebird Vision with a gas engine option. It is a 77 passenger bus and costs about $119,000.00. It is not as expensive to repair as the diesel counterparts and last well up to 200,000 miles if maintained properly. Safety features are the standard feature approved and set by CDE for all buses used and or operated in the state of Colorado.