Quaker Valley School District recently approved a new contract with its buildings and grounds and food service workers that will cover employees into the next decade.
The collective bargaining agreement with the district’s Unit 2 impacts 47 professionals.
School board members unanimously voted Nov. 16 to approve the six-year contract. Forty-seven employees are in what’s called Unit 2.
The new contract is retroactive to July 1 and runs through June 30, 2030.
Terms include an average salary increase of 4.5% each year. Employee health care contributions will also increase.
Assistant superintendent Andrew Surloff said there were multiple detailed negotiation sessions that ultimately led to a good deal for both parties.
“The process was very thorough,” he said. “We were glad that we’re ultimately able to finish it and get a deal done.”
The previous five-year contract with the Quaker Valley Educational Support Personnel Association Unit 2 expired June 30.
Stefanie McKissic, district director of human services, said the contract is similar to the one approved last year for Unit 1, which included administrative assistants, paraprofessionals, clerks, assistant nurses and technology technicians.
That agreement was approved in September 2023. It also included increased health care contributions.
”I think it’s a win-win for both sides,” McKissic said. “Both sides were looking for a six-year deal. It also aligned with our Unit 1 contract, which as a six-year deal as well.”
The Unit 1 contract runs through June 30, 2029.
Surloff said having long-term deals help with budgeting and job security as well as preparation for contract talks down the road.
“It’s always nice when they are a similar time frame because often times we’re talking about similar issues,” Surloff said. “It was not a guarantee, but definitely a benefit to have them both done in six years.”
He lauded both units for their service to the district calling them incredibly valuable groups of employees that keep Quaker Valley functioning.
Unit 2 President Mike Dugan and Vice President Shannon Homan released a joint statement:
“We are grateful to have reached an extended six-year contract and sincerely appreciate the administration for their commitment and efforts over the past 11 months to make this agreement possible. This contract highlights the dedication and hard work of our Unit 2 staff who keep our buildings running smoothly every day.”