District 203, Union Sign Contract After 8-Month Negotiation

NAPERVILLE, IL — After a negotiation that lasted eight months, Naperville Community Unit School District 203's Board of Education and the Naperville Education Support Professionals’ Assiociation union have signed a new bargaining agreement. The contract will be valid through 2027.

During that time period, average wages are expected to increase by 18.9 percent. The contract also gives a pay boost to special education paraprofessionals in the district, who will get an average pay raise of 12.5 percent in one year.

“Our educational support professionals are the backbone of our schools, and this agreement reflects our commitment to recognizing their vital contributions to our students and community,” Board of Education President Kristine Gericke said in a statement.

The wage increases "reflect our deep appreciation for the invaluable role support professionals play in our district," District 203 said in a news release.

They added, "By raising wages beyond the rate of inflation over the past two contracts, these adjustments position our district among the highest-paying in the market for similar roles, demonstrating our steadfast commitment to valuing our employees and recognizing their vital contributions."

According to the agreement, eligible employees will receive back pay retroactive to July 1.