Strongsville Schools, Maintenance Union Sign New Contract

STRONGSVILLE, OH — The Strongsville Schools and the maintenance and building support staff union, OAPSE, have agreed on a new three-year deal. The agreement will last through June 30, 2021.

“Our OAPSE staff is crucial to the day-to-day operations of our district. We recognize and appreciate their continued commitment to moving our district forward. This three-year agreement is another positive step in building the very best educational environment for our students, teachers, and staff,” said Cameron Ryba, Strongsville City Schools superintendent, in a statement.

The two sides actually reached a tentative agreement prior to the November election, which saw a school operating levy defeated at the polls. The district said cuts will now be made to the operating budget because of the levy's failure, but this deal was still viewed as fair by both side.

The contract will increase OAPSE worker salaries by 1.5-percent in each year of the three-year contract.

“On behalf of our OAPSE staff, we look forward to continuing our many efforts and contributions to enhance our District," said Theresa DiSanto, OAPSE 028 Union President.

Both sides made concessions in the negotiations. For example, the agreement will update hiring procedures, increase medical insurance caps, include biometric testing as a requirement for medical insurance, remove longevity pay of new employees, eliminate retirement incentives after 2020, and will move bus bidding to before the school year.

“We are pleased with this ratified agreement with OAPSE. Both sides in negotiations were able to find common ground and this has led to a solid agreement. Thank you to all of our OAPSE employees who continue to help make our District strong,” said Carl Naso, Strongsville Board of Education President.

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