Superior School District New Insurance Hikes Staff Deductible
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SUPERIOR - Superior School District's new insurance plan is saving them more than a million dollars.However, it's costing staff hundreds of dollars a month in deductibles.
The district says if they did not change the insurance they would have to eliminate programs and teachers.
Teachers say the district needs to start making smarter choices with its expenses.
The district is trying to make up for a $700,000 deficit by switching insurance carriers, saving them $1.1 million.
Under the new plan an individual will go from paying a $750 deductible to a $3,000 deductible.
A family will go from paying a $1,500 deductible to $6,000 deductible.
"For some families this is going to be a huge hit,” Superior Federation of Teachers President Kim Kohlhaas said. A $6000 deductible is an additional $500 per month, that's a huge hit for some families. I don't believe that there will be families that can handle it. I think it will be very challenging for some staff."
Under the new insurance staff will also have to pay 100% of their co–pay and prescriptions.
District officials say before changing insurance carriers they looked into other alternatives to make up for the financial shortfall.
Changing school times and transportation was considered but ultimately they say changing the insurance made the most sense.
The new insurance takes affect July 1st, 2012.
