School Board concerned about losing staff over high-priced housing

In the Florida Keys, some of the highest-paying jobs with the best benefits are at the Monroe County School District.

But as the housing market, particularly rentals, increases in demand and cost, School Board members say they have reason to worry they could start losing employees at a high rate or attract fewer of the best candidates. Schools leaders want to stay in front of what could turn into a housing crisis for the district, said board Chairman Andy Griffiths.

“Last year, we had 15 new teachers and only one stayed,” Griffiths said, recalling the example that stuck with him and other members.

At board member Ron Martin’s request, the district’s human resources director, Ramon Dawkins, will present a staffing report next week.

The board meets Tuesday at Coral Shores High School in Tavernier for a workshop that starts at 3:30 p.m. and a regular meeting set for 5, with the employee retention item on the workshop agenda. Board members will have a closed-door session on labor negotiations starting at 3 p.m.

$341,265 for buses

Also on Tuesday, the board is expected to approve spending $341,265 — $113, 755 each —on three new Thomas school buses, each able to hold up to 77 students.

The district started a bus replacement plan during school year 2013-14 “to refresh the school bus inventory over a 10-year period,” according to a memo attached to Tuesday’s agenda. Griffiths said the district pays for buses out of its capital funds.

The buses come from an Orlando dealer, Matthews Buses, listed by Thomas as its only retailer in Florida.

This story was originally published August 6, 2016 at 9:00 AM with the headline "School Board concerned about losing staff over high-priced housing."