A major change in employee benefits was confirmed this week as the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education voted 7–2 to cut free dental care for both current and retired employees. The decision comes in response to ongoing budget challenges facing the district.
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What Happened at the Board Meeting
The shift from a district-funded dental plan to an employee-funded one had been under discussion for months. Despite opposition from some teachers, retirees, and board members, the measure was ultimately passed.
Jenny Easter, president of the Forsyth County Association of Educators (FCAE), strongly objected to the decision, calling it the latest in a series of cuts affecting staffing, supplies, and overall school funding.
“We have cut after cut, outrage after outrage,” Easter said before leaving the meeting in protest.
Who Opposed the Decision
Board members Sabrina Kon and Robert Barr voted against the measure, citing concerns about the negative impact on employee and retiree well-being.
A retired employees’ representative also urged the board to reconsider, drawing emotional applause when they said:
“We know these cuts are things you have to sink your teeth into. Please don’t take away our teeth.”
Financial Impact of the Cuts
The board projects the elimination of free dental benefits will save the district $1.3 million initially, with estimated savings of $2.5 million in the coming years—enough to cover about 33 employee salaries.
Some board members suggested compromises, such as retaining benefits for retirees only. However, Superintendent Tricia McManus Moore argued that such a plan would be difficult without additional funding and noted that most other districts had already moved away from offering free dental coverage.
New Dental Coverage Plan for Employees
Beginning January 2026, employees will have access to a self-pay dental plan with the following costs:
- $35 per month for individual coverage
- $105 per month for family coverage
Public Reaction
The decision has sparked mixed reactions. While some acknowledge the need for budget discipline, others argue that cutting dental benefits places additional burdens on teachers and staff already struggling with limited resources. Retirees in particular have voiced deep concern, seeing the benefit as essential to their well-being.
Conclusion: Balancing Budgets vs. Employee Morale
The Forsyth County Schools’ decision to cut free dental care highlights the difficult balance between budget realities and employee welfare. While the district anticipates significant savings, employees and retirees now face added financial strain.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.