HR.com, the largest network of HR professionals, has announced Gestalt Community Schools as the winner of the 2026 Most Innovative Compensation Strategy Award. The award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional innovation in compensation strategy to attract, retain, and engage top talent while supporting long-term organizational success.
Gestalt Community Schools, a network of public charter schools in Tennessee, was selected for its transformative approach to compensation. The Gestalt People Team overhauled its compensation structure by using market benchmarking, achieving over 80% employee participation in the process, and collaboratively redesigning salary scales. This people-first strategy strengthened equity across the organization, improved teacher recruitment by cutting vacancies in half, and established a sustainable foundation for compensation excellence.
“Organizations that view compensation as a strategic investment in their people create stronger workplaces and better business outcomes,” said Debbie McGrath, CEO of HR.com. “Congratulations to Gestalt Community Schools for developing an innovative compensation strategy that delivers lasting value for both employees and the organization.”
The award highlights the importance of data-driven compensation strategies in addressing pay equity and talent management challenges. For schools and other organizations facing teacher shortages, Gestalt’s approach offers a replicable model. By involving employees in the design process and aligning pay with market data, the school system not only improved fairness but also enhanced its ability to attract and retain qualified educators.
The impact of this recognition extends beyond Gestalt Community Schools. It underscores a broader trend in HR: compensation is no longer just a cost center but a strategic tool for achieving organizational goals. As competition for skilled workers intensifies, especially in education, innovative pay structures can be a differentiator. This award serves as a benchmark for other organizations seeking to modernize their compensation practices.
HR.com, which hosts the annual awards, is committed to helping HR professionals advance their careers and find optimal solutions to enhance job performance. With over 2 million HR professionals relying on its platform, HR.com offers research, education, and networking opportunities. The recognition of Gestalt Community Schools is part of HR.com’s broader mission to highlight exemplary practices in the HR industry.
For more information about the HR.com Awards and to view all winners, visit www.hr.com/awards. To learn more about HR.com and its resources, visit www.HR.com.
