September 28, 2026: HCTA Bargaining Session

The Hernando Schools held a bargaining session on September 28, 2026, focusing primarily on budgetary and procurement issues related to Medicaid billing systems, instructional materials, salary allocations, and health insurance plans. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the transition from the Frontline to the Relay Medicaid billing system, with concerns raised about increased workload, inadequate training, and system inefficiencies despite cost savings. Financial officers explained the handling of millage funds, budget amendments, and carry-forward funds, clarifying accounting practices and addressing questions about instructional materials expenditures and salary budget increases. The session also covered proposals for salary increases tied to TSIA bonuses and base pay adjustments, with union representatives expressing concerns about the feasibility of the offers given budget constraints and insurance cost impacts. The meeting concluded with plans to place a tentative agreement on the board agenda and continued discussions on improving working conditions amid financial limitations.