Valley View Council, Board Of Education Reach Tentative Agreement

ROMEOVILLE, IL — After several bargaining sessions this week, the Valley View Council and Valley View School District Board of Education reached a tentative agreement for staff and averted the potential strike planned for next week, according to a news release from the Illinois Federation of Teachers.

Valley View Council President Jared Ploger announced news of the tentative agreement to members on Thursday night.

“We are glad to report that we have reached an agreement that puts students first and is fair for staff," Ploger said in a statement. "This process was long and difficult, but we knew that VVC members and our community were standing behind our bargaining team. We appreciate your support and solidarity in this important fight."

The District and union were at odds on several issues, including adding 20 minutes to the end of the school day at its high school, which would add an eighth period. Other items that weren't yet agreed upon included: compensation, insurance, sick day multiplier, economic contingency reopener, stipends and longevity pay for paraprofessionals and security.

"It’s not a good feeling to be pushed to the brink of a strike — and our students and families know we would always rather be in school working with students. Thankfully, united, we were able to settle a contract before that happened, and we will present to our membership an agreement that reflects the best interests of the students and the district," Ploger said.

No details of the agreement will be made available to the public until they are shared with members for thorough review and a ratification vote, according to a release. A date for ratification has not yet been set.

"We will continue to collaborate with the board and district administration to ensure we are giving our students the education they deserve and the support they need," Ploger said.

The union had announced that it intended to strike on Sept. 18. Teachers and staff have been working without a contract since the start of the school year in mid-August.