KATY, Texas – Katy Independent School District teachers and support staff can expect bigger paychecks next school year, following the Board of Trustees’ approval of a new compensation plan during a late-night meeting Monday.
The 2025–2026 plan includes salary increases and stipends for teachers at various career stages—funded in part by House Bill 2, signed into law earlier this year by Gov. Greg Abbott.
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The legislation includes the Teacher Retention Allotment (TRA), which provides state funding aimed at boosting pay for seasoned educators.
Under the plan:
- First- and second-year classroom teachers will receive a $2,500 stipend, funded locally by the district.
- Fourth-year teachers will receive a $2,500 salary increase.
- Teachers in their fifth year and beyond will receive a $5,000 salary increase.
For example, a fifth-year teacher will see their salary jump from approximately $66,000 to $71,000 annually.
The plan also includes a 3% pay raise for custodial, transportation, and other support staff.
“This plan is about valuing every member of our staff, and especially our much sought-after teachers, whether they’re just beginning their careers or have dedicated decades to public education,” said Katy ISD Board President Lance Redmon. “Our Board believes that recruiting and retaining high-quality educators and staff is essential to student success. We’re proud to invest in our people in a way that reflects that belief.”
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While House Bill 2’s TRA focuses on veteran teachers, Katy ISD leadership opted to expand support to those just starting out in the classroom. The Board included the $2,500 stipend for early-career teachers to acknowledge their vital role and the challenges they face.
Consistent with previous budget years, the compensation plan reflects the Board’s ongoing commitment to fostering a rewarding environment for all educators and staff. Officials say it also ensures the district can continue delivering the world-class education and student experiences families have come to expect.
The pay raises and stipends will take effect at the start of the 2025–2026 school year.