The Hawaiʻi State Teachers Association (HSTA) has reached a $291,881 settlement with the Hawaiʻi State Department of Education (HIDOE) to address a pay raise error that affected 71 teachers during the 2023–2024 school year. Each teacher will receive an average of $4,111 in back pay and a corrected salary step, resulting in a 3% increase.
The issue began in fall 2023 when a returning teacher was classified as a new hire by HIDOE and denied the negotiated step movement available to continuing employees. According to the 2023–2027 contract, “Effective the first working day of the 2023-2024 school year, teachers compensated on Steps 5-14A of the salary schedules designated as Exhibits B and BB shall move to the next higher step within their respective classification. However, new employees who entered service during the 2023-2024 school year will remain in place for this school year.”
HIDOE’s Office of Talent Management applied the “remain in place” clause not only to new hires but also to returning teachers. This interpretation resulted in dozens of educators missing out on thousands of dollars.
After being contacted by an affected teacher, HSTA investigated by reviewing over ten years of records. The union determined that returning teachers had never previously been treated as new hires for step movement purposes. HSTA filed a class grievance and entered into negotiations with HIDOE.
As a result, HSTA secured back pay for all affected teachers and reached an agreement clarifying that the “remain in place” clause does not apply to returning employees. This is expected to prevent similar errors from occurring in future years.
HIDOE has sent letters to those impacted and is processing personnel action forms to issue back pay and adjust salaries. HSTA has also communicated with its members about their rights and next steps.
“If you believe you were affected, received notice, and have questions, please refer to your letter from HSTA or HIDOE, or contact HIDOE’s Teacher Recruitment Unit at (808) 441-8444 or [email protected]. You may also contact your HSTA UniServ Director for support or questions about your eligibility Find your HSTA UniServ Director.”
“This settlement is a powerful reminder of what can happen when members speak up and the union stands united,” said HSTA representatives.
“One teacher noticed something was wrong and took the initiative to call HSTA.
HSTA launched an investigation, filed a grievance, and backed it with research and persistence.
Seventy-one teachers will now receive compensation they were wrongly denied.
Future step movement disputes that could affect returning teachers have been prevented.”
“This win is more than just back pay—it’s a testament to the power of collective action and why HSTA’s advocacy is essential. When we look out for each other and push back when something doesn’t feel right, we build a stronger union and a more just school system.”
“If you see something that doesn’t seem right, speak up. You’re not alone. Your union is here to stand with you.”
