Update to an earlier report: This article includes new information about a story we previously covered. Read our earlier report.
By News Now Georgia
Gwinnett County Public Schools employees will not receive a second $2,000 retention bonus, Superintendent Dr. Alexandra Estrella told teachers. The Georgia Department of Education said the state paid one $2,000 bonus but left a second payment out of its new budget.
The district had told employees the one-time retention bonus depended on state funding. Estrella wrote that she understood teachers’ frustration. She started July 1, after the budget was approved and bonus decisions were made, according to her letter.
Board Chair Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan said the governor signed the state budget May 12. The school board approved its own budget May 28 while still expecting additional state funding.
Board member Rachel Stone asked what it would take to fund all or part of the supplement. She estimated that a one-time $1,000 payment would cost about $26 million from district savings.
Gwinnett County Association of Educators President Alison Cundiff said members plan to wear red at the school board’s Nov. 17 session, scheduled for 6 p.m., to show support and learn more.
Marcus Jones
News Now Georgia
