Frankfort District 157-C trustees Monday signed off on a two-year contract with the Frankfort Teachers’ Association, including pay raises of about 3 percent each year and more cost sharing regarding health insurance coverage.
Seventy-eight percent of the Teachers’ Association voted to approve the contract on April 9, and the Board of Education voted to ratify the contract at its April 14 meeting.
The two-year contract extension includes movement to a new Consumer Price Index (CPI) salary structure, with raises for 2014-2015 will equate to 3 percent, followed by 2.5 to 3.0 percent in 2015–2016, depending on the 2014 CPI.
"This contract demonstrates the Board’s respect for our teachers," said Board of Education President Chris McFadden. "Providing a fair contract helps attract and maintain the most talented people for the job. The Board and the FTA are committed to an efficient and excellent school district, and we look forward to many more successful years to come.”
The contract also includes a new cost sharing model for employee health and dental insurance premiums. Employees will pay an additional 6 percent for single coverage and slightly more for various family coverage options with the Board of Education picking up the remaining monthly premium amounts. In addition, Board contributions into an employee’s Health Savings Account (HSA) are being increased by $500-$1,000 depending on the HSA plan option selected and a $500 incentive is being offered for those declining health insurance altogether as long as proof of alternate coverage is provided.
The contract also provides for “Educational Advancement” salary increases for hours earned towards advanced degrees. Extracurricular stipends will increase by 1.5 percent for 2014–2015 and then remain constant for 2015–2016.
"The Frankfort Teachers’ Association was committed to working with the
school board to reach a financial package that both believe to be fair," said Union President Kellie Aranowski. "We believe both sides are pleased with the
outcome of this negotiation. As we continue to work together, it is our goal to keep the lines of communication open to foster a healthy relationship that is best for the students and staff of FSD157-C.”
"We appreciate everyone working together to craft this contract extension," said McFadden. “Now that it is in place, we can continue with what we do best—teaching our students and preparing them for an excellent future.”
Subscribe to our daily email newsletter.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
