After months of collaborative negotiations, the United Teachers of Monroe (UTM) and the Monroe County School District (MCSD) have reached a tentative agreement on the teachers’ and school-related personnel contract. The agreement, after seven bargaining sessions, includes significant improvements in the compensation package to include the highest starting teacher salary in the state of $62,700.
“UTM and its team are pleased with the outcome of the negotiations with MCSD,” said UTM president Diana Walker. “Despite the delay due to state budget approval and the uncertainty in public education funding in Florida, both parties were able to come to an agreement on a fair compensation and benefits package. Our educators and support personnel are the backbone of our public schools, and UTM will continue to strive for what is best for them and their families.”
“It is essential that MCSD continues to offer competitive salaries,” said Harry Russell, lead negotiator for the school district and executive director of personnel support and instructional leadership, “in order to attract and retain the best and brightest educators who drive the excellence our community expects.”
“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to both the United Teachers of Monroe (UTM) and the district bargaining teams on reaching a tentative agreement,” said Superintendent Ed Tierney. “This achievement is a testament to the professionalism, collaboration and shared commitment to our students that guided the bargaining process. I want to especially acknowledge Mr. Harry Russell for his leadership of the district team and Ms. Diana Walker, president of UTM, for her steadfast advocacy on behalf of our educators. The district deeply values our employees and remains profoundly grateful for their dedication and tireless efforts in support of student success.”
Mindy Conn, chair of the Monroe County school board, added, “This tentative agreement is a direct result of the hard work and collaboration between UTM and the district. I’m grateful for our continued partnership, which benefits our employees, strengthens our schools and supports student success.”
The tentative agreements will be presented to UTM members for ratification in the coming weeks. Following ratification, the Monroe County School Board will vote on the agreements during its meeting on Oct. 7. Once approved, the agreements will be retroactively effective from July 1.
More information is available from Amber Archer Acevedo, deputy superintendent, at amber.acevedo@keysschools.com, 305-293-1400 ext. 53319 or 305-360-2355.
