Dayton teachers receive thanks, the cashable kind

All Dayton ISD staff members received an incredible vote of confidence and appreciation from the Dayton ISD School Board on Wednesday. Throughout the day, various Dayton ISD administrators and school board members met with the staff of each campus and all members of support staff throughout the district to deliver the news that brought tears to the eyes of many people.

With the added stress of COVID-19 and the additional responsibilities that have been placed on teachers and staff due to the pandemic, Superintendent Dr. Jessica Johnson and the Dayton ISD School Board wanted to show their appreciation to all of the employees of Dayton ISD. This blessing came by giving them a gesture of appreciation that could not have come at a better time.

While other school districts around Dayton are making similar gestures, the Dayton ISD School Board stepped up in a big way. Returning professional staff members from last year, which includes teachers, librarians, and administrators, will receive $2,500. Returning support staff members, which include paraprofessionals, bus drivers, custodial staff and maintenance employees, will receive $1,250. The Dayton ISD Trustees wanted the staff members who started this challenging COVID journey last year with our students to know that their heroic efforts did not go unnoticed. Dr. Johnson stated, “We value their commitment, their loyalty, and their unwavering support for our students, parents, and community throughout the last nine months. However, we are also humbled by the folks that came onboard this school year and have jumped in and tackled the challenges over the last 3 1/2 months. Our staff is very deserving.” Therefore, new professional staff members to Dayton ISD will receive $1,250, while all new support staff members to the district will receive $625.

Dayton ISD School Board President Linda Harris, said, “The Board of Trustees realizes the extraordinary efforts that every Dayton ISD employee has made during this COVID time period. It has been a long and unexpected trial. Staff immediately jumped into action beginning in March and sustained through the spring, summer, fall, and plans for the future months. All employees played a vital role and were essential for the education of our students. We wanted to acknowledge that work, time, and concern.”