Story posted Wednesday, May 27, 2009
New 5-Year Contract Satisfies High School Board, Teachers
Less than six months after negotiations began, Township High School Dist. 214 board members and the district's Education Association have approved a new five-year contract agreement.
The contract will run through June 2014.
Under the agreement, teacher salary increases will be frozen for the 2009-10 school year. After next year, pay hikes will see a zero to 3.5% increase in 2010-11 and 2011-12, and a one to 3.75% increase in years 2012-13 and 2013-14.
"The contract agreement is good for both teachers, the district, and the community," said Associate Supt. for Human Resources Randy Hawley. "In light of these tough and uncertain economic times, it is good to have a long-term agreement---one that satisfies both parties."
Health insurance coverage will be based on a percentage of premiums beginning in 2009-10, and qualified domestic partners will be entitled to the same benefits beginning 2010-11.
Employee co-payment amounts will increase for prescription drugs beginning in the 2010-11 school year.
Other highlights of the contract include compensation for teaching an additional class, flexible time for student services staff members, a reduction in the number of college credit hours needed for vertical advancement, and an increase in the tuition reimbursement rate for professional development.
The rate has been raised to 75% of tuition up to a maximum of $600 per credit hour for teachers working toward an advanced degree in their content areas, graduate level courses in content areas, National Board Certification, and coursework toward a doctoral degree.
Teachers who are taking classes in ELL (English Language Learners)/ESL (English as a Second Language), reading, and special education will also receive a 75% tuition reimbursement.
Also included in the agreement is an increase in the number of years two
tenured teachers can share one full-time teaching position. Instead of a two-year limit, teachers now, with administrative approval, can job share
for six consecutive years. After the sixth year, teachers will be assigned to open full-time positions within the district, where they will serve for at least one year before becoming eligible to apply for another job share opportunity.
"We began negotiations with the understanding that both sides have concerns," said Education Association President Dick Trent. "As we worked through the process, we were able to meet the needs of both the Education Association members and the school board. It is a pleasure to work with people who understand and consider both teachers and students. This agreement will encourage and allow the district to serve the students while meeting the needs of the community for a long time."
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