KQED's The California Report New Law Provides School Boards the Opportunity for Pay Raise
Mar 10, 2026
Members of local school boards are getting their first major pay raise in 40 years under a new California law. Conversation also covers a recent death tied to releases from the Adelanto ICE facility. Discussion touches on how pay limits shape who can serve and why districts struggle to recruit diverse candidates.
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New Law Raises School Board Pay After 40 Years
- California raised allowable monthly pay for school board members for the first time since 1984, increasing maximums from $1,500 to up to $4,500 in large districts.
- Katie Anastas reports San Diego-area boards have already approved raises, citing recruitment and representation concerns as drivers.
Personal Pay Story Shows Who Can Serve
- Jose Luis Solache said he was paid $400 a month when elected at 23, illustrating barriers to young people serving on boards.
- South Bay board member Jose Lopez-Aguino said higher pay could recruit parents who can't otherwise afford to serve in San Diego.
Postpone Raises During Layoff Planning
- Delay pay increases during planned layoffs to show solidarity and avoid sending the wrong message to staff and community.
- Maya Leisure urged South Bay's board to postpone raises while the district prepares layoffs for over 50 employees.