Cherry Creek Schools Negotiated Agreement: What It Means for Employees and the Community
The Cherry Creek School District, located in Colorado, recently negotiated a new agreement with its employee union, the Cherry Creek Education Association (CCEA). The agreement, which was ratified by both parties in May 2021, covers various aspects of compensation and benefits for district employees.
One of the significant changes in the agreement is an increase in teacher salaries. The starting salary for a teacher with a bachelor`s degree is now $45,500, which is higher than the average starting salary for teachers in the state of Colorado. Additionally, the agreement includes a 5% salary increase for teachers who have been with the district for five years or more.
The agreement also addresses concerns around teacher workload and working conditions. It includes provisions for reducing class sizes, providing more planning time for teachers, and improving the quality of classroom materials and technology.
Another significant change in the agreement is the district`s commitment to providing healthcare benefits for all employees. Previously, healthcare benefits were only available to employees who worked full-time. However, the new agreement provides benefits for part-time employees, including substitute teachers and educational assistants.
The negotiated agreement has been praised by both the district and the CCEA. According to Superintendent Scott Siegfried, “This agreement provides competitive compensation for our teachers while addressing some of the other key issues that impact their ability to do their job effectively.” CCEA President Sarah Sobek added that “The agreement reflects a mutual respect between the district and the association and a commitment to working together to provide the best possible education for our students.”
The new agreement is a significant win for Cherry Creek School District employees and the community as a whole. By providing fair compensation and improving working conditions, teachers and other district employees can focus on providing quality education to their students. This agreement also sends a positive message to potential teachers and staff, making Cherry Creek School District a more attractive place to work.
In conclusion, the Cherry Creek Schools Negotiated Agreement is a step forward for the district in supporting its employees and improving the quality of education for students. With increased salaries, improved working conditions, and healthcare benefits for all employees, the district can attract and retain high-quality teachers and support staff.