July 22, 2026: HCTA Bargaining Session

This was a bargaining session held on July 22, 2026, involving Hernando Schools and the Hernando Classroom Teachers Association (HCTA). The primary focus was on negotiating the distribution of Teacher Salary Increase Allocation (TSIA) funds mandated by state legislation. The discussion centered on the allocation of approximately $1.645 million in raises for eligible instructional staff, with an additional district investment of $789,000 proposed to cover raises and associated fringes for all instructional unit members. The parties addressed the constraints imposed by state rules limiting the use of TSIA funds to classroom teachers, while expressing a desire to extend compensation improvements more broadly. They also discussed timelines for ratification, board approval, and fund disbursement, noting that final payments would likely occur after October 1, 2026. The meeting included clarifications on legislative language, budgeting challenges, and the impact of funding restrictions on salary growth and negotiations. Both sides committed to continuing discussions on compensation for staff not covered under the current agreement.