This year’s negotiations were a testament to what’s possible when transparency, trust, and shared purpose guide the process. This process is about more than numbers – it’s about investing in people, like fourth-grade teacher Lauren Knapp, preserving values, and building a future everyone can be proud of. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Board approves compensation increase for classified & administrative staff
Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
The Board of School Trustees of the Hamilton Heights School Corporation unanimously approved a new one-year contract with the Hamilton Heights Classroom Teachers Association (HHCTA) at its Oct. 22 meeting.
This marks a significant milestone in the district’s ongoing commitment to attract and retain high-quality educators.
The agreement reflects a thoughtful, transparent, and collaborative process – one that unfolded over 18 months of ongoing dialogue between the School Board, Administrative Team, and Association leadership. In a time of statewide uncertainty surrounding public education funding, Hamilton Heights leaned into its values: respect, collaboration, and shared purpose.
The 2025 legislative session brought new challenges, including SEA 1 funding concerns, a slight projected enrollment decline, and minimal tuition support increases. Unlike neighboring districts, Hamilton Heights does not receive referendum support for staff compensation. Yet, through strategic planning and data-informed decision-making, the district closed the gap with its Hamilton County peers while remaining competitive with athletic conferences and like-sized school corporations.
Highlights of the one-year compensation increases include: a minimum starting teacher salary of $46,000 and a minimum staff compensation increase of 5 percent, with an average increase of 7.66 percent across certified, classified, and administrative staff.
“We approached this process with open dialogue, fiscal responsibility, and a shared goal of honoring the vital role our teachers play in shaping the future of our students and community,” Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood said. “We are incredibly blessed to have the caliber of educators we have at Heights. Investing in our educators pays off in big dividends for our students.”
This was Ryan McCleary’s second time at the bargaining table. As a high school social studies teacher and current HHCTA President, he praised Hamilton Heights’ negotiation process as one of the best in the region.
“We use an interest-based approach, working collaboratively to support the shared goals of our school corporation,” McCleary said. “Dr. Arrowood often calls it a ‘love fest,’ and truthfully, the CTA and administration partner well to craft a contract that benefits both staff and the district.”
McCleary acknowledged the challenge of competing with southern county schools that operate with significantly larger budgets but noted that Heights continues to close the gap and distinguish itself among similarly sized districts.
“While no contract solves every issue, this one moves us forward and gives us room to keep making Hamilton Heights a great place to work,” McCleary said.
“As someone who’s sat on both sides of the bargaining table, I can say this year felt different – in the best way,” said Julie Davis, a retired educator and member of Hamilton Heights School Board. “We approached negotiations not just as board members, but as partners in education. Despite the challenges, we stayed focused on what matters most: supporting the teachers who shape our students’ futures. This contract reflects a shared commitment to respect, transparency, and the belief that great teaching drives strong communities.”
“This year’s negotiations were a true team effort,” explained HHSC School Board Member, Ben Lehman, who was a part of the Negotiations Team. “The board made it a priority to support our teachers with a competitive wage, even in a challenging financial climate. We weren’t just negotiating numbers – we were affirming our commitment to attract and retain great educators and to show our staff that they matter. I’m grateful to have been part of a process that reflects the spirit of Hamilton Heights: united, forward-thinking, and deeply appreciative of the people who make our schools exceptional.”
“This agreement is more than a milestone – it’s a foundation,” Davis added. “As a board, we’re committed to building on it year after year, ensuring our teachers feel valued and supported. Great educators drive student success, and strong schools build strong communities. While this is a one-year contract, it reflects a long-term promise: to keep investing in the people who make Hamilton Heights a place where excellence thrives.”
As Hamilton Heights continues to navigate a shifting educational landscape, this agreement stands as a testament to what’s possible when collaboration, care, and community come first.
