Tampa, Fl. (September 11, 2026) – Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) is pleased to announce a tentative compensation agreement has been reached with the Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association (HCTA) for salary increases for instructional personnel.

This agreement represents the largest segment of represented employees in the district and provides a compensation package of more than $21 million in salary increases. 

Based on the district's current financial picture, the bargaining team was able to offer a one-step advancement on the salary schedule for all eligible employees in the instructional bargaining unit. In addition, the tentative agreement allows for one-time payments for eligible employees at the top of the salary schedule and for additional licensure requirements.

Select ESE instructional employees will receive a one-time ESE critical shortage supplement. 

“This agreement represents an important investment in the talented professionals who make a difference in the lives of our students. We are grateful for the partnership that made this outcome possible. With great momentum already underway this school year, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and the impact we will continue to make together," said Superintendent Van Ayres. 

The Board also agrees to continue covering the full cost of employee-only health insurance premiums for a designated health plan. The district is absorbing $35.5 million in increased healthcare costs for instructional personnel in 2027, allowing employees to benefit from lower copayments with no increase in premiums.

"This tentative agreement represents a collaborative effort focused on supporting the educators who serve our students each day. We appreciate the partnership with the district in reaching an equitable solution that acknowledges the dedication, expertise, and impact of our teachers throughout Hillsborough County. Most notably, the district committing to absorbing the full increase in healthcare costs, ensures that employees will not bear the burden of higher premiums while also benefiting from this compensation package," said HCTA President Rob Kriete.

It is important to note this tentative agreement was reached at the negotiating table and must still be ratified by the employees in the bargaining unit and approved by the Hillsborough County School Board.

In addition to this agreement, each instructional employee is also receiving a $6,000 salary supplement thanks to voters who overwhelmingly passed the Millage Referendum last November. Those salary increases have already been realized as staff began receiving the increases in their first paycheck of this school year.