We are writing to express our profound concerns regarding the recent administrative pay increases at Yelm Community Schools, especially in light of the simultaneous cuts to student-facing activities such as band and choir concerts, National Honors Society, counselor positions, social worker duties and class advisers who plan and prepare events such as homecoming and prom.
This decision sends a disheartening message to students, faculty and the wider community about the priorities of our central office administration.
Our educational institution exists primarily to serve its students. Programs, resources and activities that directly benefit students’ academic, social and emotional development should be at the forefront of our financial planning. The recent cuts to these vital services, which include funding for band and choir concerts, critical counselor positions and essential social worker duties, directly undermine the quality of education and the overall student experience.
At the same time, our school board voted to provide pay raises above and beyond cost of living adjustments (known as IPD) for administrators, creating a stark contrast that is difficult to reconcile.
We are supportive of all YCS employees, including administrators, especially our hard working building administrators, receiving cost of living adjustments; however, anything beyond that percentage seems to be in poor taste given our district’s current financial situation. And while competitive compensation is important for attracting and retaining talent, it should not come at the expense of the very students we are here to serve. This allocation of resources suggests a detachment from the daily realities and needs of our student body.
Kathryn Cullum and
Tasha Johnson
co-presidents,
Yelm Education Association
Yelm
