LAUSD Teacher Salary in 2018: A Comprehensive Breakdown
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is the second-largest school district in the United States, serving over 600,000 students. As of 2018, LAUSD teachers' salaries were competitive and reflective of the district's commitment to quality education. This article provides a detailed overview of LAUSD teacher salaries in 2018, including base salaries, additional compensation, and factors affecting pay.
Base Salaries and Step Increases
LAUSD teachers' salaries are determined by a step-and-column salary schedule, which considers years of service and educational attainment. In 2018, the base salary for a teacher with a bachelor's degree and no additional units or credentials started at $50,436 per year. The salary increased by $2,058 for each step, with a maximum of 35 steps. Teachers could also earn additional compensation for additional units, credentials, and special assignments.
Example of LAUSD Teacher Salary Schedule in 2018
| Years of Service | Step | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | $50,436 |
| 1 | 2 | $52,494 |
| 2 | 3 | $54,552 |
| ... | ... | ... |
| 34 | 35 | $102,218 |
Additional Compensation in 2018
In addition to base salaries, LAUSD teachers could earn additional compensation for various reasons. These include:
- Additional Units or Credentials: Teachers could earn extra pay for each additional unit of college credit or for obtaining specific credentials, such as a master's degree or National Board Certification.
- Special Assignments: Teachers working in specific roles, such as instructional coaches, department chairs, or administrators, could receive additional compensation.
- Overtime and Extra Duty Pay: Teachers could earn overtime pay for working more than their contracted hours or extra duty pay for taking on additional responsibilities, such as coaching sports teams or advising clubs.
Factors Affecting LAUSD Teacher Salary in 2018
Several factors could influence a LAUSD teacher's salary in 2018. These include:
- Education Level: Teachers with higher education levels, such as a master's degree or doctorate, could earn more than those with only a bachelor's degree.
- Years of Service: Teachers with more years of service typically earned higher salaries due to step increases.
- Special Assignments and Responsibilities: Teachers taking on additional roles or responsibilities could earn extra compensation.
- Location and District: Salaries could vary slightly depending on the specific school or district within LAUSD.
LAUSD Teacher Salary Compared to Other Districts and the National Average
In 2018, LAUSD teacher salaries were competitive with other large school districts in California and the national average. According to the National Education Association, the average teacher salary in the United States was $60,477 in 2017-2018. In California, the average teacher salary was $79,121 in 2017-2018, according to the California Department of Education.
While LAUSD teacher salaries in 2018 were competitive, it's essential to note that the cost of living in Los Angeles is higher than in many other parts of the country. Therefore, while salaries may compare favorably to other districts, the purchasing power of those salaries can vary significantly.
In conclusion, LAUSD teacher salaries in 2018 were determined by a step-and-column salary schedule, with additional compensation available for various reasons. Factors such as education level, years of service, and special assignments could influence a teacher's salary. LAUSD teacher salaries were competitive with other large school districts in California and the national average, but the cost of living in Los Angeles should be considered when evaluating these salaries.
