Winnetka SD36 Finalizes 5-Year Teacher Contract

From Winnetka Public Schools District 36

The Winnetka Public Schools Board of Education and The Winnetka Education Association (WEA) are pleased to announce that they have agreed on terms of a five- year contract after 13 months of discussions. The Board unanimously approved the contract at their monthly meeting on Nov. 18.

Bargaining teams for the School Board and the WEA worked together with the shared goal of crafting an agreement that continues to provide students with high quality educational experiences. This extended agreement will provide years of continuity and support for the community, staff, and students.

The five-year contract extends to August 31, 2019. Salary increases over the life of the contract will average 4.88% annually.

The overall cost increase, when factoring in all features of the contract, is 3% and is aligned with the School Board’s financial philosophy.

The agreement calls for two additional workdays per year for teachers that will be dedicated to professional development, as well as further participation by employees in the cost of health insurance.

The salaries are competitive within New Trier Township while meeting the financial goals established by the Board.

Teaching associates and entrance monitors are included in the bargaining unit for the first time. They will be receiving similar compensation increases and health insurance benefits as were provided to the teachers.

Superintendent Trisha Kocanda remarked, “I am proud of the collaborative effort demonstrated by the School Board, WEA, and administrative team throughout this process.

We modeled appropriate problem-solving and perseverance to agree to terms that will benefit all members of the school community.”

“The teachers are pleased that an agreement has been reached, and we look forward to continuing to focus on our students and on delivering an exceptional education program,” said WEA Negotiation Chair Sam Yusim.

“After over a year of negotiating, we have created a thoughtful agreement. We appreciate the benefit of this investment of time and energy.”

Board President Kendra Wallace, noted, “I am very appreciative of the tremendous work our staff does day in and day out. This agreement values the work of our teachers and associates while honoring our responsibility to taxpayers in our community.”

The Board approved the five-year agreement at its Nov. 18, School Board meeting.