CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) -
Members of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board have approved a raise for all school district employees - the first approved raise since 2008.
Board members unanimously approved a 3% raise for all employees during a meeting on Tuesday night.
"I think the raises are well deserved. I appreciate what our teachers do and as I understand it's been a while since they've had a raise," said CMS parent Bob Osment.
Interim Superintendent Hugh Hattabaugh says the raise will be official once Governor Bev Perdue signs the state budget and Mecklenbug County releases $18.5 million "for raises only."
Hattabaugh is "optimistic" the raise will happen, but says it's "not a done deal."
Perdue has until Sunday night to sign the budget into law. She can also veto it or let it become law without her signature.
Several board members questioned Hattabaugh about the possibility of not getting the Mecklenburg County money. Hattabaugh says if CMS does not receive the $18.5 million, employees will not receive a raise.
Incoming Superintendent Dr. Heath Morrison is in favor of the raise, and will begin his term on Sunday.
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