Fall River teachers have begun negotiating with the school department on a new union contract. Their current three-year agreement expires in August and covers teachers, nurses, LPNs, therapy assistants and school administrative managers.
Fall River Educators’ Association (FREA) president Keith Michon says the two sides have met four times since late winter with the union taking a different negotiation approach.
Mr. Michon says the union seeks parity with neighboring communities in making its demands.
Regarding compensation, the union claims that being on par with similar-sized communities will result in greater teacher recruitment and retention.
Members of the FREA addressed the Fall River school committee this week stating its case for its demands. Among those to speak was Durfee High School teacher Alexander Souza. He attended Durfee and was encouraged by his father to enter the teaching profession. He said he’s finding it more difficult to continue to teach in Fall River in the face of better compensation elsewhere.
Mr. Michon says the public display at the meeting is important in informing the community of the challenges facing city teachers.
Mr. Michon says he is confident a new three-year contract will be settled with the city before school starts in late August.
Mayor Paul Coogan agrees and looks forward to finalizing a new deal.
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