Teachers trade salary bump for increase in health insurance

The Breckenridge Public School District has been in negotiations with teachers regarding their contracts. Recently, the two sides reached a mutual agreement. Contracts saw a total package increase of 13.13%.

Salaries saw an increase of 3% for the 2023-2024 academic year that will be retroactively applied to July 1, 2023. An additional 3% increase will be applied for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The bargaining process went without a mediation service, something Superintendent Kristie Sullivan was proud to be part of in working together with the teacher group to reach what all agreed was a fair contract.

Fair, in a world of inflation that has an indefinite impact on public school finances such as labor and pensions. Add the pressure of underfunded mandates.

In the financial balancing act, teacher compensation is folded in with classroom resources and infrastructure, which poses a challenge with limited resources, according to Sullivan.

"We recognize the tremendous value our teachers bring to our schools. Our goal in negotiating contracts has always been to invest in our educators who provide direct support and instruction for our youth while maintaining fiscal responsibility for our stakeholders," Sullivan said.

Both sides made concessions in order to reach an agreement, according to teacher Stacy Busta, who was part of the negotiation committees. The teachers union agreed to a smaller increase to their salary schedule than desired.

In place of the larger salary bump, teachers agreed to add contract language and secure a vital increase to health insurance contributions, according to Busta.

"We are grateful for Superintendent Sullivan and the school board's willingness to work cooperatively with the union's negotiations team throughout this process," Busta said.

Sullivan expressed her appreciation for the school board and teacher negotiations committees. Sullivan recognized several teachers who are passionate educators that voluntarily advocate for their bargaining group and strive to enhance education.

"Amid inflationary pressures and budget constraints, they champion quality teaching, recognizing that investing in teachers directly impacts our youth's future. Their advocacy inspires me, and I admire their dedication to positive change in both our schools and the field of education," Sullivan said.