South Fayette School District Collective Bargaining Agreement: What You Need to Know
As a resident or employee of South Fayette School District, you may have heard discussions or rumors about the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the district and its employees` union. This article will provide you with an overview of what the CBA is, why it is important, and some key components to watch for in the current negotiations.
What is a collective bargaining agreement?
A collective bargaining agreement is a contract between an employer and a union that represents its employees. The CBA outlines the terms and conditions of employment, including wages, benefits, working conditions, and job security. The negotiation process typically involves both sides making proposals and compromises until a final agreement is reached.
Why is the CBA important?
The CBA is important because it sets the expectations and rules for both the employer and employees. It provides a framework for resolving disputes and ensures that employees are treated fairly and consistently. The agreement also affects the budget and finances of the district, as salaries and benefits are significant expenditures.
Current negotiations
The current CBA between South Fayette School District and its employees` union, the South Fayette Education Association (SFEA), expired in June 2021. Negotiations for a new agreement have been ongoing since early 2021, with the next scheduled meeting in August 2021.
Some of the key issues being negotiated include salary increases, health insurance, and retirement benefits. The SFEA has proposed a salary increase of 5% for the 2021-2022 school year and a 3% increase for the following year. The district has proposed a 2% increase for both years. Health insurance and retirement benefits are also being discussed, including the possibility of a high deductible health plan and changes to retirement contribution amounts.
What to watch for
As negotiations continue, there are several components of the CBA to watch for that could have significant impacts. These include:
1. Salary increases: Both sides are proposing different salary increases, which could affect the district`s budget and finances.
2. Health insurance: Changes to the health insurance plan could affect employee satisfaction and overall costs for the district.
3. Retirement benefits: Changes to retirement contribution amounts could affect employee retention and recruitment.
4. Length of the agreement: The length of the CBA will determine how long the agreement will be in effect and when negotiations will need to start again.
In conclusion, the collective bargaining agreement between South Fayette School District and its employees` union is an important document that affects both employees and the district`s finances. As negotiations for a new agreement continue, it is important to stay informed on the key issues being discussed and their potential impacts.