United Teachers of Monroe ratify tentative agreements with the Monroe County School District for Instructional and School Related Personnel contracts.
The United Teachers of Monroe (UTM) and the Monroe County School District (MCSD) began contract negotiations for the upcoming school year in February to address compensation, benefits, and evaluation. After thirteen (13) collective bargaining sessions the two teams were able to reach tentative agreements including new language as well as additional compensation for the two bargaining units.
Diana Walker, President of United Teachers of Monroe, stated, “We are pleased that your union and MCSD continue to negotiate fair and equitable compensation, benefits, and working conditions for our employees in the bargaining units. Their hard work and dedication to public education in Monroe County are the reason UTM will always strive to create better lives for our working families.”
Lead Negotiator for the Monroe County School District, Harry Russell stated, “It is important that MCSD continues to offer competitive salaries for all of our employees so we can recruit and retain the best and brightest who contribute to an excellent education system that our stakeholders expect.” Superintendent Theresa Axford said, “Congratulations to all the members of the UTM and District bargaining team led by Harry Russell, Executive Director of Personnel Support and Instructional Leadership. Their thoughtful negotiations led to a truly amazing salary improvement for all Monroe County employees. This is the first time in many years that employees complete the school year knowing what their salary will be for 23-24. In addition, we can hire teachers throughout the summer with a starting salary of $62,100 which I believe will be the highest in the state. Kudos to all.” Monroe County School Board Chair, Dr. Sue Woltanski states, “I am proud of our district’s ability to work collaboratively with UTM and come to agreement so quickly. By working together, we can continue to focus on what matters most, providing a high-quality education for our students.”
The tentative agreements were ratified by instructional and school resource personnel on May 21st. The agreements will go before the Monroe County School Board for approval on June 11th. The implementation of the approved agreements will become effective July 1, 2024, and last through June 30th, 2026.
