Warren County Public Schools’ employees should expect a minimum 1 percent salary increase effective July 1 after a decision from the district’s school board Thursday night.

Board member Amy Duvall praised the decision as a way to retain quality teachers.

“The pay increases are greater for 20-plus-years teachers, because that’s where we saw the biggest deficit comparing us to other surrounding districts,” she said.

Chris McIntyre, the district’s chief financial officer, explained the change to district staff in a video presentation. He said the school board and Superintendent Rob Clayton wanted to see regionally competitive pay, new step increases for 25 years of service beyond a previous cap of 20 years and annual salary increases.

During the presentation, McIntyre noted discrepancies between district salaries and the average regional salary for Rank I teachers.

“We are close to the regional average, however, we have work to do,” he said.

Teachers with Rank II certification will also see an increase, McIntyre said.

“Pending board approval tonight, we will make significant gains in how we line up to the current regional average,” he said.

McIntyre said he will make additional recommendations on salary changes for classified employees when the school board meets in May. Classified employees include bus drivers, aides and other employees.

An additional $1.9 million will be added to the district’s general fund expenditures in categories of salaries and fringe benefits. “$1.6 million of that relates to certified pay, and upwards of $250,000 will relate to classified pay,” he said.

The board also renewed a contract with Clayton for the next four years.

“This board took a gamble four years ago on a guy that didn’t have any experience in central office,” board Chairman Kerry Young said. “I will tell you, we hit a grand slam.”

Young said Clayton has more than met expectations since he was hired in 2013. He read from a statement congratulating Clayton on several accomplishments.

“Overall district assessment results have risen each consecutive year that he’s been here,” he said, noting the district’s distinguished schools have grown from three when he first arrived to 11 last year. “I think this board is very thankful for Mr. Clayton’s strong leadership and we look forward to working proactively with you over the next four years.”

The renewal of Clayton’s contract also comes with a salary increase.

Under Clayton’s new contract, which is effective July 1, he will make $176,000 annually. His salary last year was $153,249, Young said.

The board also heard a progress update on a new elementary school going up on Russellville Road next to Henry F. Moss Middle School. Workers began mobilizing on the construction site Thursday.

Board members approved documents that will be sent to the Kentucky Board of Education for approval. Architect Kenny Stanfield with contracted firm Sherman Carter Barnhart told the board state approval could take longer than expected.

“As I understand, they’re three weeks behind their normal turnaround,” he said.

– Follow education reporter Aaron Mudd on Twitter @BGDN_edbeat or visit bgdailynews.com.