DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Decatur Public Schools District 61 and the Decatur Education Association have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement.
The agreement covers 2026 through 2029.
Monica Wilks served as district bargaining chair, while Michelle Cline served as bargaining chair for the Decatur Education Association.
At the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, May 26, a presentation was given highlighting updates included in the new contract.
Updates in the new agreement include average salary increases of 4.78% in Year 1, 4.49% in Year 2, and 4.36% in Year 3, as well as the addition of up to 15 days of paid emergency leave for emergency situations, subject to approval by the superintendent.
“This agreement reflects the value we place on our employees and the important work they do every day for our students and families,” said Monica Wilks, Director of Human Resources. “We appreciate the professionalism and partnership shown throughout the bargaining process, and we believe this agreement provides meaningful support for our staff while helping us continue
to move the district forward.”
DEA President Samuel Mills said, “We are proud of the work that went into this agreement and grateful for the voices at the table who helped make it possible. This contract includes important improvements for our members and reflects our shared commitment to creating the best possible environment for educators and students.”
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