BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A proposed $90,000 pay raise for Alabama State Superintendent Eric Mackey has reignited debate over public salaries in a state where many educators and workers earn significantly less. If approved, Mackey’s salary would increase from $292,500 to $380,000, making him the highest-paid K-12 education official in the state and one of the top-paid superintendents nationwide.
The raise represents a 30% increase and comes with continued perks such as housing and vehicle allowances. Mackey’s contract would also extend through 2029, maintaining annual 3% raises—a feature included since he took office in 2018 at a starting salary of $245,000. His gross pay in 2024 was $308,866, including travel expenses.
While supporters argue the raise reflects Mackey’s oversight of 750,000 students and over 100,000 employees, critics highlight stark disparities between his proposed salary and those of average educators. In Alabama, the average teacher earns $55,882 annually—ranking 31st among U.S. states—and school principals average $108,596. Local superintendents earn an average of $174,944 annually, with Mobile County Superintendent Chresal Threadgill earning $365,261.
Mackey’s proposed salary would still fall below other high-ranking public officials in Alabama. Jimmy Baker, Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System, is set to earn $554,100 in 2025, while Jim Purcell, Executive Director of the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, earned nearly $400,000 last year. Governor Kay Ivey earns $124,563 annually—a fraction of Mackey’s potential pay.
The debate also brings attention to other eye-popping public salaries in Alabama. Nick Saban, head coach of the University of Alabama football team, earned over $11 million annually—the highest salary for any public employee in state history. Additionally, David Bronner, CEO of the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA), earns nearly $1 million annually.
Critics argue these figures highlight growing disparities in public sector pay.
The Alabama Board of Education will vote on Mackey’s contract in April after several members requested more time to review the proposal. If approved, his base salary would more than double the state superintendent average and continue a trend of increasing pay for top officials while many rank-and-file workers struggle to keep up with inflation.
A final decision is expected in the coming months.