East Allegheny School District - Budget

Budget

In 2009, the district employed 150 teachers. The average teacher salary in the district was $60,655 for 180 days worked. The beginning salary was $41,647, while the highest salary was $117,835. Teachers work an 7 hour day, with one planning period and a paid 30 minute lunch included. Additionally, the teachers receive a defined benefit pension, health insurance, professional development reimbursement, 2 paid personal days, 10 paid sick days, 5 paid bereavement days, 1 year paid sabbatical leave and other benefits. The district offers a retirement stipend that includes payment for unused sick days of up to $7,500. The union receives 20 paid days per year to conduct union business, including travel outside of the district. According to Rep. Glen Grell, a trustee of the state teacher retirement fund, a 40-year educator can retire with a pension equal to 100 percent of their final salary.

In 2007, the district employed 110 teachers and the average teacher salary in the district was $56,052 for 180 days worked. The average teacher salary in Pennsylvania was $54,977. As of 2007, Pennsylvania ranked in the top 10 states in average teacher salaries. When adjusted for cost of living Pennsylvania ranked fourth in the nation for teacher compensation.

On July 1, 2006, the school board awarded a five year contract to Roger A. D'Emidio, as Superintendent, with an initial salary of $110,000 and a 3% annual rase. It also provides for an extensive benefits package including: health insurance, $500,000 in life insurance, paid travel and dues expenses and a defined benefit pension with paid health insurance until age 65.

In 2008, per pupil spending at East Allegheny School District was $13,690 for each child which ranked 122nd, in the state.

Reserves - In 2008, the district reported an unreserved designated fund balance of zero and an unreserved-undesignated fund balance of -$15,296.00.

In December 2010, the Pennsylvania Auditor General conducted a performance audit on the district. Several findings were reported to the school board and administration.

The district is funded by a combination of: a local income tax, a property tax, a real estate transfer tax 0.5%, coupled with substantial funding from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government. Grants provide an opportunity to supplement school funding without raising local taxes. Pension income and Social Security income are both exempted from state income tax and local income tax regardless of the level of income.