Thousands of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools employees could get raises July 1
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools plans to give raises to some staff this year with $8.3 million from Mecklenburg County.
The pay increases would be for “classified” staff — those who support day-to-day operations and don’t teach. That includes roles like cafeteria workers, physical therapists and bus drivers. The raises, which could take effect next month, won’t be retroactive because they start at beginning of budget year.
The plan is part of the second phase of the district’s compensation study. The first phase, which was implemented in early 2025, involved raising the wage of the lowest-paid employees in the district to $20 an hour.
District leaders presented details of phase two of the plan to CMS board members Thursday.
“This is more than a compensation update,” CMS Chief Financial Officer Kelly Kluttz said Thursday. “It’s a shared commitment to do what’s best for our community.”
The change would affect an estimated 6,446 employees and take effect July 1. Approximately 5,542 employees would get an average pay raise of 0.83%, while 856 would get an average pay raise of 12.22%. Around 78 employees — occupational and physical therapists — would get an average pay raise of 8.18%.
District leaders said the goal is to bring salaries to a more competitive level and reward employees for years of service.
The total cost is an estimated $8.5 million, with $8.3 million funded by Mecklenburg County. County commissioners approved the funding June 3 as part of CMS’ 2025-26 budget proposal.
The board will vote on the proposal June 24, and since county commissioners have already approved the funding, the plan is expected to pass. If it’s adopted, CMS will send affected employees a letter in July.
