FeedsDistrict, teachers agree to pact
The Plymouth-Canton Community Schools Board of Education and Plymouth-Canton Education Association (PCEA) have reached an agreement on a two-year teacher contact.
School board trustees voted unanimously to approve the contract that was ratified by the teachers of the Plymouth-Canton Schools who are represented in contract negotiations by the Michigan Educational Association, the state branch of the National Education Association.
“It’s a win for both sides,” said Chuck Portelli, the union representative who was the lead negotiator for the teachers. “It’s savings for them and good for our members,” he said.
During the first year of the deal, teachers will receive a 0.25 percent raise that will be paid in the form of a bonus sometime this fall. Teachers who are already at the top pay scale will receive a bonus of 1.5 percent.
In the 2008-09 school year, those at the top of the pay scale will receive a 2 percent pay raise according to the normal pay schedule.
The structure of the pay raises was important for the district because as a bonus the pay increases will not impact the contract pay scale, said Ray Biun, the executive director of human resources for the school district.
“The negotiations went very well,” said Biun who was able to reach a deal with union in five sessions. The teachers stepped up to the plate,” Biun added.
In addition to the compensation, the district and teachers union reached agreement on health care. All teachers will receive coverage under Blue Cross/Blue Shield Community Blue PPO starting Jan.1 2008. The district expects to save more than $400,000 due to the insurance move.
Plymouth-Canton Schools Superintendent Jim Ryan lauded the teachers for their professionalism and service throughout the contact negations.
“I think we work well together. We have a great mutual respect,” he added.
“This is the most dedicated staff I’ve ever encountered, said board member Dianne Gonzalez “I’m proud to be in this district,” she added.
