West Fargo Public Schools paying more than $1M in "retention stipends" to teachers and staff

(Fargo, ND) -- West Fargo Public Schools is providing an extra financial boost to teachers and staff members, many of whom are taking on extra duties, according to a district official.

"It really hits us in all areas. I think for this year we are about 16 short in teaching positions when we started the year. That means we look to do overloads to our existing staff," said the district's Human Resources Director Brittnee Nikle. 

The school board approved the district's request to provide "retention stipends" to teachers and staff in the district, as a way to show gratitude for their hard work and commitment. 

The one time payments ranging from $250 dollars up to $500 dollars will be paid using ESSER funds. 

Nikle says the total payout amounts to more than one million dollars.