Raises for Dougco Teachers after union contract expires without renewal

PRLog (Press Release) - Jul. 5, 2012 - Douglas County, CO, July 3, 2012 --The eve before Independence Day, Douglas County School Board held a special meeting to adopt a resolution rewarding its staff with a new compensation plan. Retroactively to July 1, 2012, all Douglas County staff will receive a 1% salary raise, plus to a 1% retention bonus for returning employment contracts on time. Additionally, the school district will absorb the cost obligations to the Public Employee Retirement Accounts. Tuesday's unanimous approval of the resolution affirmed the compensation change which is budgeted for without tax increases, state revenue improvements—or a union collective bargaining agreement.
“We’re offering a resolution that addresses the situation in which we find ourselves,” said Craig Richardson, Director or Douglas County School District Board of Education. “The collective bargaining agreement that governed during the school year has expired by its own terms. Our teachers and classified employees are understandably curious. We want to provide as much reassurance and comfort to them about their payday future, and also recognize their achievement and excellence. The motion we’re making tonight does both.”
Parent Led Reform, a local grassroots group of citizens and parents, called for the district to open its union contract talks to the public in February. The organization is running a community effort in support of Douglas County's innovation efforts and follows the negotiations closely.
“As parents, we want our teachers to know that we believe they should be rewarded for their many accomplishments—not least of which is the districts’ top ranking of schools in the state,” says Karin Piper, founder and Executive Director of Parent Led Reform. “For many of us, the teachers and schools are the reason we live in Douglas County. Our teachers are Douglas County greatest strength. ”

For more information:
www.ParentLedReform.org
www.IStandWithDougco Kids.com
www.DCSDK12.org
www.dcft.net

https://www.facebook.com/notes/i-stand-with-dougco-kids/j...