Douglas County teachers and staff will receive their first-ever semimonthly paycheck on Jan. 16.

Previously, they received paychecks monthly. The school system will join a small handful of school systems across the state paying employees twice a month. Of the 181 school districts across the state, fewer than 10 districts pay teachers and staff twice a month.

With the support of the Board of Education, Superintendent Trent North successfully implemented the new payroll structure less than six months after beginning his new leadership position. North says it was an idea introduced to him by employees who asked about the feasibility of semimonthly pay.

“After conducting a survey of our employees, I found that the majority of our 3,000 employees felt it was time to reassess the current pay frequency. Increasing the frequency of pay allows our employees more control and flexibility with their finances. As the school superintendent, it is important to listen to the needs of our employees and find solutions to increase their level of job satisfaction.”

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Helen Gilbert places flowers on her brother Eurie Martin’s grave at Camp Spring Baptist Church in Sandersville. Her brother died eight years ago. Three former Washington County deputies are accused of causing his death and are set to stand trial Monday. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez