What's the main factor coloring employee satisfaction? Many organizations' leaders think the answer is salary, yet in reality, employee benefits packages are one of the biggest incentives an employer can offer. Educational institutions have done well in providing benefits to employees. However, with an unpredictable economic climate and a complex…

School districts offer teacher early retirement incentive plans (TERIPs) as an opportunity to hire less expensive teachers, reduce fringe benefits costs, and eliminate teaching positions. Discusses reasons for teachers to accept TERIP, and describes a computer model that allows school officials to calculate and compare costs incurred if an…

The development of a retirement incentive plan saves jobs and money. Older and more expensive staff members gain financial benefits, and school districts eliminate positions without laying off staff. Lists 10 steps effective in instituting an early retirement incentive plan. (MLF)

School business administrators are devoting a significant portion of their time to retirement-related issues. Describes the retirement systems in place in Illinois and provides some budgeting examples for retirements and early retirements of school district personnel. (MLF)

With many impending retirements of school business officials, school districts and universities should collaborate in assuring smooth transitions in the nation's school business offices. Forward planning includes offering internships in the school business office and extensive cross-training for presently employed specialists. (MLF)

Explores some of the major features of proposed health care plans, which, if enacted, are likely to have a significant impact on school districts' operations, budgeting, and benefits planning. Contains a checklist of key steps districts can take in estimating and planning for the impact of health care reform. (MLF)