WBRZ - Baton Rouge

GONZALES, La. - The Ascension Parish School Board is dipping into its budget to grant $6 million in bonus pay for district employees.

The Advocate reports the money is listed as a one-time increase and not a permanent pay raise.

The School Board approved the payments unanimously.

School Superintendent Patrice Pujol said the payments recognize the contributions of district employees.

She said district officials would continue to seek ways to improve employee salary structures.