Kawartha Pine Ridge District board ratifies four-year deal with teachers
The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board has ratified contracts with both its elementary and secondary teachers’ unions.
The board’s 1,500 contract elementary teachers and 700 secondary teachers have been without a collective agreement since Aug. 31, 2022.
“We are very pleased with this new collective agreement as it will set the stage for better learning conditions for our students and better working conditions for our members for years to come,” stated Elementary Teachers Local president David Berger in a press release.
Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation District 14 president Dave Warda concurred, noting that teachers have “voted for stability in our system” and members look forward to continuing to meet the needs of area students.
“Teachers in all our KPR secondary schools appreciate that these negotiations are done and are even more focused on preparing our youth for their future in work opportunities, post-secondary studies and community involvement,” stated Warda.
Board chair Jaine Klassen Jeninga appreciates the efforts made by all, stating the new agreements are a testament to the “collaborative, respectful and student-focused discussions that are always at the core of our work together.”
“Elementary school teachers play an integral role in supporting successful futures for students. We continue to greatly appreciate and value their passion and dedication for student achievement, success and wellbeing,” said Klassen-Jeninga.
“We are very pleased that we have been able to come to an agreement that meets the needs of both parties and reflects the dedication and excellence of our secondary teaching staff.”
The new collective agreement is retroactive to Sept. 1, 2022, and expires on Aug. 31, 2026.