The East Newark Board of Education and their local teachers union have ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement, officials announced.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
The agreement is effective from July 1st, 2024 through June 30th, 2027 and includes salary increases for each year.
“This agreement reflects our commitment to ensuring that East Newark educators are valued and supported as they continue to provide high-quality education to our students,” East Newark Education Association President John Colaiacovo III said in a statement.
“We are pleased with the progress made during negotiations, and we believe this contract will help attract and retain the talented professionals our school needs to thrive.”
Specifically, educators will receive a five percent salary increase for 2024-2025, followed by four percent increases for both the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 scholastic years.
Beyond that, teachers with over 10, 15, and 20 years of continuous service in East Newark will receive longevity bonuses of $1,000, $1,700, and $2,400, respectively.
Coaches for sports will receive $1,500; $1,600; and $1,700 for each respective year for a minimum of 60 hours of student contact time per sport, with payment prorated if fewer hours are worked.
The school year will now consist of 181 pupil contact days, plus two teacher orientation days. New teachers will attend an additional two orientation days.
Additionally, teachers covering before/after school events and activities outside of contractual hours, will be compensated at $50 per hour, prorated accordingly, while teachers will be provided with family health benefits upon hiring.
This benefit had previously only been afforded to teachers who had received tenure.
“The board is proud to have reached an agreement that supports our teachers while also maintaining fiscal responsibility,” exclaimed East Newark BOE President Carla Fernandez
“This contract is a testament to our shared dedication to the students of East Newark and ensuring they receive the best education possible. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the East Newark Education Association.”
In addition to these significant contractual improvements, East Newark Superintendent and Principal Dr. Rosaura Bagolie, Principal Superintendent of East Newark, emphasized the importance of the agreement in fostering a positive educational environment. ”
This agreement marks a significant step forward for our school community. We are committed to supporting our teachers and want to ensure that they are paid a fair wage,” she added.
“This agreement provides the stability and resources needed for our educators to focus on what matters most—our students’ success. Together, we will continue to foster a learning environment where both teachers and students can excel.”
