Parkland teachers get raises in new contract

Parkland teachers will receive 2.9% annual raises under a new three-year contract that was approved by the school board Tuesday night.

The new contract, approved before the current one expires, will go into effect Sept. 1, 2022, through Aug. 31, 2025, according to a news release from the district. The union also approved the agreement Tuesday.

“Both parties collaborated well to create a fair contract that is fiscally responsible and rewards our employees for their skills and dedication to the important and varied roles they play within Parkland,” Superintendent Mark J. Madson said in a statement.

Under the new deal, the starting salary in fall 2022 for a teacher with a bachelor’s degree will be $59,375 and $67,439 for a teacher with a master’s degree. Stipend salaries for coaches, department chairs and student activity advisors will increase at the same interval as the salaries each year.

Union members will still be able to choose between two preferred provider organization, or PPO, insurance programs, but the amount of money they pitch in toward those plans will increase. Employees will have increased contributions of $540 for single coverage and $1,080 for multiple party coverage during the term of the contract.

The union represents 680 members, including teachers, nurses, guidance counselors and other professional staff.

In a statement, Parkland school director Lisa Roth thanked the union for helping the district “manage taxpayer funds responsibly.”

“We value our amazing teachers and appreciate that our staff continues to recognize that increases to healthcare contributions are necessary for the district to handle the rising cost of medical insurance,” she said.

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