In a move to bolster moral among educational staff, Marietta City Schools has announced an across-the-board bonus extension that puts extra green in the pockets of full-time and part-time staff alike. The district is throwing in with the cash injections on the tails of Gov. Brian Kemp's statewide retention initiative disclosed last month. Announced just yesterday, this significant financial nod to school employees will see full-timers getting a cool $1,000 and part-timers banking a neat $500.
The numbers were crunched and, with a unanimous vote, the Board of Education let loose the funds to cover everyone under the district's wing, as revealed by FOX 5 Atlanta. Despite the governor’s original retention bonus aiming to cover numerous staff, it seemed poised to leave some without the extra appreciation. Now corrected, Marietta’s eligibility expansion carries a price tag topping $400,000.
Marietta isn't riding solo in this educational generosity, though. Following on their heels, the Cobb County Board of Education earlier decided all non-temporary staff members would feel the love with similar bonuses. It's clear school districts around Georgia are finding the dough to dish out these Yuletide year-enders.
Every staff member is "essential in creating a thriving educational environment for our students," Board Chair Jeff DeJarnett elaborated in a statement obtained by 11Alive. Superintendent Grant Rivera echoed the sentiment, saying, "Celebrating the dedication of our staff is fundamental to who we are at Marietta City Schools." Kemp himself has not yet weighed in on these district decisions to pony up extra funds.
The bonuses are slated for release into the wild this coming Friday, placing a cherry on top of what's been – for many – a relentless grind through the throes of pandemic-battered school years. It's a firm handshake in greenbacks for those who’ve stood by their posts, ensuring that education for Georgia's youth doesn't skip a beat.
