HR.com, the largest network of HR professionals, has announced Gestalt Community Schools as the winner of the 2026 Most Innovative Compensation Strategy Award. This accolade celebrates organizations that demonstrate exceptional creativity and effectiveness in compensation design to attract, retain, and engage top talent while supporting long-term organizational success.
Gestalt Community Schools, a charter management organization, was recognized for its transformative approach to compensation. The organization's People Team utilized market benchmarking, achieved over 80% employee participation in the redesign process, and collaboratively overhauled salary structures. This people-first strategy not only strengthened pay equity but also significantly improved teacher recruitment, cutting vacancies in half. The initiative has established a sustainable foundation for compensation excellence across the organization, showcasing how data-driven decisions can yield substantial benefits.
Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com, commented, "Organizations that view compensation as a strategic investment in their people create stronger workplaces and better business outcomes. Congratulations to Gestalt Community Schools for developing an innovative compensation strategy that delivers lasting value for both employees and the organization."
The award underscores a growing trend in human resources: leveraging compensation as a strategic tool rather than a mere administrative function. By aligning pay with market data and employee input, organizations can enhance their competitive edge in talent acquisition and retention. Gestalt Community Schools' success serves as a model for other employers seeking to improve their compensation practices.
For more information about the HR.com Awards and to view all winners, visit hr.com/awards.
About HR.com: HR.com is the largest network of HR professionals, committed to helping them advance their careers and find optimal solutions to enhance job performance. With over 2 million members, HR.com offers research, education, and networking opportunities. For more details, visit www.hr.com.
