Teachers' union in Prince George's County signs off on a fresh 3-year deal with the school district

Prince George's County Public Schools teachers have approved a new three-year contract with the school district, bringing about significant changes in the teaching environment. The contract, which was agreed upon by both the school district and the Prince George's County Educators' Association (PGCEA), includes numerous benefits for teachers and a focus on classroom safety measures.

The contract, which still needs final approval from the Prince George's County Board of Education, was approved with an impressive 96 percent of the vote by PGCEA members. If approved, the contract will go into effect immediately and last through the 2028 fiscal year.

Advocates are still working in Annapolis to ensure the necessary funding for the contract is secured, as mentioned by Meyer. The school district and union came to a tentative agreement on this contract in July.

The new contract includes several notable improvements for teachers. It provides a 9 percent cost-of-living pay increase over the life of the contract. Teachers in Prince George's County Public Schools will receive a retroactive payment of $3,000 for their 11- to 12-month employment or those who conducted summer school and other extended programs, effective immediately and retroactive to July 1, 2021.

The contract also addresses the students' learning environment, not just the teachers' working environment, according to Christy. The new contract includes safety measures to keep teachers and students safer, as stated by Christy. If a student displays aggressive behavior, they cannot return to the classroom until safety plans have been put in place, according to the new contract. The contract mandates safety plans to be immediately put in place if a student shows repeated aggressive behavior.

The contract also offers increased reimbursements for classroom supplies and pay for covering substitute vacancies. It provides more time and flexibility for high-quality training, lessening the burden of paperwork with grades going into a streamlined system.

The contract includes pay raises and higher starting teacher salaries above Maryland's $60,000 minimum. The Prince George's County Board of Education has scheduled a special meeting for Friday at 5 p.m. to vote on the approved contract.

In summary, the new contract approved by the PGCEA members promises to bring about significant changes in the teaching environment of Prince George's County Public Schools. If approved by the Board of Education, it will provide improved working conditions, increased safety measures, and better compensation for teachers, all aimed at creating a more conducive and secure learning environment for both teachers and students.

Teachers' union in Prince George's County signs off on a fresh 3-year deal with the school district