Vote Could Increase Pressure on Orlando-Area Schools to Remain Competitive
Palm Beach, FL — Emily Gregory is praising the Palm Beach County School Board after board members voted 6-1 to approve a 3.5% salary increase for instructional employees for the 2025–2026 school year.
The vote follows a recommendation from a Special Magistrate and comes as school districts across Florida continue struggling with teacher shortages, rising living costs, and changing education funding models.
“As Florida continues to navigate a persistent teacher shortage and rising cost-of-living, it is critical that we take meaningful steps to support and retain the educators who serve our students every day,” Gregory said in a statement.
Gregory also noted that she has three children enrolled in Palm Beach County schools and thanked teachers for their commitment to students.
The raise comes as many Florida educators face increasing housing, healthcare, and transportation costs that have outpaced salary growth in several regions of the state.
The decision could also have implications for Central Florida. Districts such as Orange County Public Schools face similar affordability pressures as Orlando’s cost of living continues to rise.
If major districts like Palm Beach County continue approving recurring raises, education leaders say other districts may face increased pressure to offer stronger compensation packages to remain competitive in recruiting and retaining teachers.
At the same time, Florida’s expanding school choice programs continue reshaping public-school funding statewide. As enrollment shifts, districts may face additional financial challenges while attempting to increase salaries and maintain services.
Gregory called the vote “a step in the right direction” for both teachers and students.
