During a special called board meeting Friday night, the Russellville School Board of Education approved raising the minimum RSD teacher salary to $45,000 a year.

According to the board, the prior base salary was $40,000 for teachers.

The move to increase the base salary will tie RSD at 6th overall in base teacher salaries for the state of Arkansas.

RSD Board of Education President Jason Golden said, "The board is committed to providing our district with the best possible opportunities. This raise represents the biggest increase in teacher salaries recorded in RSD history. By providing this salary raise, we are ensuring a brighter future for our teachers and students."

The board said during the 2021-2022 school year, the classified salary schedules underwent revisions which made schedules competitive.

RSD Chief Financial Officer Justin Robertson said, "By establishing a multi-layered economic approach to spending and budgeting, RSD will continue its forward movement while ensuring fiscal responsibility."

RSD Superintendent Ginni McDonald said, "I believe our teachers have the greatest impact on our students and their success. This salary raise is an opportunity to value our teachers and support our commitment to high-quality education and student success. The Russellville School District is making great strides."

Officials said in addition to the newly certified salary raise, the RSD Board of Education approved the usage of ARP ESSER funds for a $1,000 dollar bonus for both RSD certified and classified staff that will be paid at the completion of the 2022-2023 academic year.