At the close of a long meeting, the Ellsworth Community School District extended the session last Monday night with a lengthy session that culminated with wage increases for the coming year of 3.25 percent for the teachers and 3 percent for administration and support staff.

The measure passed by a 4-2 vote, with board members Gary Kressin and Steve Marx in opposition. Kressin voiced the opinion that teachers should get 3 percent, while administration should get 2 percent. Marx wanted 2 percent across the board increases.

Marx said he thinks the district may have too many administrators.

“From most people that seek me out, we have topheavy administration,” he said.

Board President Doug Peterson stood up for the administration.

“With the challenges of this year, I think it’s fair at 3 percent (for administration),” he said. “We have the fewest number of administrators in the (Middle Border) conference. We all do more with less when it comes to people.

Superintendent Barry Cain advocated for a higher increase for the teaching staff, especially given with the dedication they showed to the district and students last spring.

“I know what their spring breaks were like. I know what their summers were like,” said Cain.

Board Treasurer Kurt Buckner agreed.

“I look at one word, and I say retention. I appreciate what they’ve been doing,” he said.

Kressin stuck at the 3 percent for teachers.

“I think 3 percent is fair,” he said.

At the close of the vote, Peterson credited the district culture again.

“People are taking a different look at how things are done here,” he said. “I’m proud of this district.