Submitted by Hamilton Southeastern Schools
Hamilton Southeastern Schools (HSE) sets the standard among the top school districts in Indiana in its investment in teacher salaries and benefits, according to the 2024-25 Teacher Compensation Report released by the Indiana Department of Education. The report provides a statewide comparison of how school corporations allocate state tuition support funding.
The report shows that HSE directed 84.44 percent of net tuition support to teacher salaries and benefits, well above the state minimum requirement of 62 percent. This places HSE 13th out of 290 districts statewide in percentage of funding dedicated to total teacher compensation, and second among districts of a comparable size. The district also ranked fourth in Indiana in the share of funding devoted to teacher retirement contributions.
Superintendent Patrick Mapes said the report affirms the district’s continued commitment to supporting educators in the classroom.
Mapes
“This report reflects a thoughtful and steady approach to supporting the teachers who guide student learning every day,” Mapes said. “We remain focused on retaining excellent educators, attracting new talent, and providing the resources necessary for strong instruction across all schools.”
According to the report:
- 44 percent of net tuition support went to teacher salaries and benefits (13th statewide)
- 32 percent of net tuition support went toward teacher salaries alone (14th statewide)
- 75 percent supported teacher insurance (44th statewide)
- 37 percent supported teacher retirement (4th statewide)
Chief Financial Officer Tim Brown said these outcomes reflect long-term budget planning and a shared focus on classrooms.
“It is our goal as district leadership to ensure that resources are aligned to where they make the greatest impact,” Brown said. “This continues to be a community that values strong teaching, and these numbers reflect that priority.”
The Indiana Department of Education’s 2024-25 Teacher Compensation Report serves as one data point among many used to evaluate compensation, working conditions, and staff support. Ongoing conversations with teachers, school leaders, and community members will continue to guide future investments.
“Our teachers are essential to student success, and we appreciate the dedication they bring to their work,” Mapes said. “We will continue to look for opportunities to support them to the fullest possible extent.”