The process wasn't fast or easy, but the resulting compromise was agreeable to both sides involved in the extended contract negotiations between the Egg Harbor Township Board of Ed and the township's teachers and staff.

A three-year deal, retroactive to 2013, received 83% of the union membership votes on Monday and was unanimously approved Monday night by the school board, ending more than two years of contract negotiating.

According to an article from Laura Stetser on shorenewstoday.com about the contract settlement, all staff will receive modest pay increases annually over the life of the contract.

The union also agreed to changes in their health care coverage, moving from a State Health Benefits Program 10 to Direct 15 program. This change will bring lower premium payments but higher copayments.

Teachers agreed to lengthening their work week by a half hour, once a week, time designated for professional learning community meetings. PLC is a time for colleagues to confer on how to teach more effectively.

Given the tough times so many are facing right now in South Jersey, both sides were wise to realize the importance of paying teachers a fair salary while keeping in mind the realities of today's economy on the people living in Egg Harbor Township.

 

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