Upcoming starting salary increase for Beaufort County teachers

BEAUFORT COUNTY, SC (WTOC) – Beaufort County’s new school budget will make the district one of the highest-paying in the state of South Carolina.

At the start of this week, the Beaufort County School District teachers’ starting salary was under $38,000, but now, heading into the next school year, it’s over $45,000.

A move which, according to the superintendent, was a priority.

“It was important. We knew that by focusing on our employees, we are focusing on our children and so this was a great way to do that,” said Dr. Frank Rodriguez, Superintendent, BCSD.

He says the district is moving from 53rd in the state to near the top with these increases, and the timing couldn’t be better.

“The past two years have been extremely difficult for our teachers and school support teams, so this is a way to recognize that effort on a more permanent basis.”

Through these difficulties, educators have found a way. As District Teacher of the Year, Dr. Megan Deweese.

“A lot of things were difficult for all of us but we persevered. We are teachers, that’s what we do.

The emotions of being honored by your peers, now matched with another kind of recognition.

“Absolutely amazing. It was great. We felt appreciated and it was just something exciting.

That said, she clarifies that it’s not about money for her or any of her colleagues.

“No one goes to school for the money. They do it because they want to help children, because they love children.

This passion for work now pays off a little more at the end of each month.