The Fall River Educator’s Association (FREA) and the school department remain at odds over the details of a new teacher’s contract. Although both sides met yesterday, no agreement was reached.
FREA President Keith Michon says no new salary offers were introduced, and the city presented new proposals on only a handful of items.
Both sides are still divided on compensation based on teacher seniority. The city proposes a seven percent increase for lower-level teachers in year one and an 8 percent increase for those on the higher steps. For years two and three, the city proposes five percent increases across the board.
The union is seeking wage increases of eight and nine percent in year one with nine and ten percent hikes in years two and three.
The FREA contends that its members remain underpaid compared to other Gateway Cities. And with an increase in funding from the state, now is the time for the city to make corrections. Mr. Michon points to a recent contract agreement in Salem as an example of where Fall River’s negotiations should be heading.
Mayor Paul Coogan, who chairs the school committee, says he is concerned over the pace of negotiations but concedes that it’s part of the bargaining process.
Mr. Michon says the longer teachers work without a new contract, the likelihood the union will begin to discuss possible job actions.
The next negotiation session is scheduled for September 18.
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