Mike Maxwell, Trustee Area 4, Contra Costa County Board of Education

06/11/2026

One of the reasons I will be running again for Trustee Area 4 in November 2026:

At our Board meeting last night, we discussed the annual Board stipend adjustment. Historically, these increases have been modest—typically matching or coming in below the percentage increase negotiated for our teachers and support staff. This year, those employees received a 3% increase, and I supported a matching 3% adjustment for Board members.

For context, Board members currently receive approximately $646 per month. In my case, those funds often go right back into supporting educational programs and student activities throughout our county. Nobody should seek public service for the stipend.

During the discussion, however, the conversation shifted to the fact that state law now permits county board members to increase compensation up to $2,000 per month. Moving from $646 to $2,000 would represent roughly a 233% increase.

Several Board members discussed whether we should begin moving toward that amount, with suggestions such as increasing compensation to $1,000 per month now and considering additional increases in future years.

I strongly disagreed.

At a time when our teachers and support staff received a 3% increase through negotiations, I do not believe a Board should be considering compensation increases many times larger than those provided to the employees who serve students every day.

I ran for this position to represent students, families, teachers, staff, and our community—not for the stipend. I have always believed public service requires accountability, fiscal responsibility, and leading by example.

I ultimately made the motion to approve a 3% increase, which passed. Following that vote, there was additional discussion about whether the Board could revisit the issue in the future, including seeking guidance from County Counsel regarding available options.

The meeting recording should be available by Monday, June 15, on the CCCOE Board website: https://www.cccoe.k12.ca.us/About-CCCOE/County-Board-of-Education/Agendas-and-Calendar/index.html

I encourage everyone to watch the discussion and draw their own conclusions.

As always, stay informed, stay engaged, and vote thoughtfully.

— Mike Maxwell
Trustee, Area 4

02/24/2026

Congratulations, Grizzlies!

Congratulations to the California High Mock Trial team for winning their 9th consecutive Contra Costa County Championship!!🏆 The team, coached by Brian Barr, edged out Miramonte and will now represent the County at the California Mock Trial Finals in March. Way to go!