Unit 40, ECTA Reach Tentative Agreement on New Contract

The Effingham Classroom Teachers Association, the union representing the District's certified staff members, and Effingham Unit #40 have reached a tentative agreement on a contract. The tentative agreement would cover four years from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2025.

ECTA Bargaining Chair Shannon Hall-Nannini said, "The tentative agreement reached was the work of true collaboration with the District. It is our continued goal to maintain quality public education for our students, as well as attract and retain excellent and committed staff and this agreement addresses these issues. Through this collaborative process, we were able to discuss, offer possible solutions, and come to a consensus of what is beneficial for all parties involved. ECTA hopes that the positive relationship building that took place during this process will continue in the years to come."

Unit #40 Superintendent Mark Doan said, "This agreement recognizes the outstanding work of our staff members both before and during this pandemic period. In addition, this agreement shows the District's appreciation for staff. Our students and families will benefit from stability within our team of educators."

The ECTA and District utilized the concept of Interest Based Bargaining during the negotiation process. Doan said, "This time, both groups chose to use the IBB process. This helped build a team atmosphere where issues were discussed and options emerged from collaboration of the IBB team."

Next steps will include a ratification vote by the ECTA membership and, if approved, the agreement will go before the Effingham Unit #40 Board of Education for a vote on Monday, August 16.