After months of collaborative negotiations, the United Teachers of Monroe (UTM) and the Monroe County School District (MCSD) have reached a tentative agreement on the teachers' and school-related personnel contract. The agreement, after seven collective bargaining sessions, includes significant improvements in the compensation package to include the highest starting teacher salary in the state of $62,700.
Diana Walker, President of United Teachers of Monroe, stated, “UTM and its team are pleased with the outcome of the negotiations with MCSD. Despite the delay due to state budget approval and the uncertainty in public education funding in Florida, both parties were able to come to agreement on a fair compensation and benefits package. Our educators and support personnel are the backbone of our public schools, and UTM will continue to strive for what is best for them and their families.”
Harry Russell, Lead Negotiator for MCSD and Executive Director of Personnel Support and Instructional Leadership, emphasized the importance of the agreement: “It is essential that MCSD continues to offer competitive salaries in order to attract and retain the best and brightest educators who drive the excellence our community expects.”
Superintendent Tierney stated, “I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to both the United Teachers of Monroe (UTM) and the district bargaining teams on reaching a tentative agreement. This achievement is a testament to the professionalism, collaboration, and shared commitment to our students that guided the bargaining process. I want to especially acknowledge Mr. Harry Russell for his leadership of the district team and Ms. Diana Walker, President of UTM, for her steadfast advocacy on behalf of our educators. The district deeply values our employees and remains profoundly grateful for their dedication and tireless efforts in support of student success.”
Mindy Conn, Chair of the Monroe County School Board, added, “This tentative agreement is a direct result of the hard work and collaboration between UTM and the District. I’m grateful for our continued partnership, which benefits our employees, strengthens our schools, and supports student success.”
The tentative agreements will be presented to UTM members for ratification in the coming weeks. Following ratification, the Monroe County School Board will vote on the agreements during its meeting on October 7th. Once approved, the agreements will be retroactively effective from July 1, 2025.