July 13, 2026: HCTA Bargaining Session

The Hernando Schools held a bargaining session on July 13, 2026, focused primarily on discussions around teacher salary increases, funding allocations, and compliance with state Department of Education (DOE) requirements. Key procurement-related topics included the maintenance and growth allocations for teacher raises, with detailed analysis of funding shortfalls and eligibility criteria for salary increases based on years of experience and role classifications. The session addressed the complexities of distributing state-allocated funds, including the timing of payments and the need for board-approved and union-ratified plans to access growth allocations. The parties also discussed the impact of DOE reporting requirements, back pay for separated employees, and the inclusion of various instructional staff beyond classroom teachers in salary adjustments. Additionally, the meeting covered procedural matters such as payroll scheduling for millage payments and verification processes for teacher experience. No contract awards or vendor selections were discussed, but the session highlighted budgetary constraints and policy interpretations affecting future salary-related expenditures.