Melrose Ratifies New Contracts For Teachers And Paraprofessionals

MELROSE, MA — The School Committee and the Melrose Educators Union this week ratified new three-year contracts for teachers and paraprofessionals in the Melrose Public Schools, marking what district leaders described as a significant investment in educators and school operations.

The agreements, ratified Tuesday, were made possible in part by funding made available through theProposition 2½ override approved by Melrose voters last year.

According to the district, the contracts include salary increases for teachers and paraprofessionals aimed at helping the district remain competitive and improve staff retention. The agreements also provide new training opportunities and paid holidays for paraprofessionals, establish paid parental leave for eligible union members, and create new avenues for professional development.

The contracts also include measures intended to improve school facilities and safety by establishing frameworks for staff to provide feedback on building conditions and school security concerns.

“By working together, we have secured an agreement that honors the essential role our educators play, stabilizes our district, and ensures our classrooms remain places where every student can thrive,” School Committee Chair Seamus Kelley said in a statement.

Kelley thanked members of the negotiation teams and credited Melrose voters for approving last year's override, which helped make the agreement possible.

Melrose Educators Union President Leslie Means said the agreement was the result of extensive discussions between both sides and represents progress for teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrative assistants.

“While no agreement can fully address every priority or concern, we believe this contract represents meaningful progress for teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrative assistants, and provides a strong foundation for continuing to support both educators and students,” Means said.

Superintendent Cari Berman described the contracts as both sustainable and competitive, saying they balance support for employees with the district’s long-term financial outlook.

“By investing in and supporting our dedicated staff, this agreement strengthens our ability to provide high quality instruction, foster student growth and achievement, and meet the diverse needs of learners across the district,” Berman said.

In addition to the three-year agreements for teachers and paraprofessionals, the School Committee ratified a one-year contract with secretarial staff represented by MEU Unit B.

The agreement maintains the current salary schedule but provides one-time retention stipends of either $2,500 or $3,500 based on tenure. Contract negotiations for Unit B are scheduled to resume by Nov. 15, 2026.

The School Committee approved the contracts during its regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday evening after union members ratified the agreements earlier in the day.

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