At a time when many districts are facing staffing shortages, Schalmont Central School District just gained an edge with a competitive contract.
With a 10.6 percent raise over four years on top of the yearly step increase, and no health care concessions, Schalmont Teachers’ Association President Mary Beth Flatley says it’s their best across-the-board win since 1998.
“It shows that our superintendent and school board really value what we do as educators and are willing to invest to recruit and retain the most qualified people for meeting the needs of our students.”
The new contract is also historic for the Schalmont TA, as this is the first time they ever settled before their current contract expired. The negotiating team put together proposals last summer and worked collaboratively with the superintendent to ensure a smooth process.
Flatley says breaking down communication barriers between administration, maintaining an open dialogue and working together as a union was key to their success.
“We are worth everything that is in this contract and more,” Flatley said. “Schalmont is a great school district with fantastic educators and this salary increase will help us attract more of them.”