Council Rock Approves Educators' Contracts In Unanimous Vote

NEWTOWN, PA — The board of the Council Rock School District convened Thursday night for a special meeting outside its regular schedule, and approved a new contract with the Council Rock Education Association.

Unanimous approval from the board in a 9-0 vote ended contract negotiations for Council Rock's educators on an optimistic note.

"At a time when it's tough to find common ground, it's remarkable that the district and the teachers association were able to work together and reach a contract agreement that is fair to both sides and will ensure that our strong relationship continues," board president Ed Salamon said, adding, "The CRSD board considers CREA to be a genuine partner in providing the best possible educational experiences for our students."

Jason Harris, Council Rock's director of business administration, said the plan would not necessitate the 2.4 percent tax increase originally presented to the board.

“It is possible to realize additional revenue in future years without a tax increase,” he told board members.

Prior to the vote, several board members expressed approval for the plan.

“I want to assure the public that the board was well-informed throughout the process, the board was deeply involved in the process, and my personal opinion is the end result is excellent and fair to both parties," board member Edward Tate said.

Board members also thanked the teachers for their hard work this year.

“We know that last year was a very difficult year for everyone in the classroom and families," board member Mariann McKee said. "You’ve performed magnificently.”

Board member Yota Palli said, “They’re our heroes, and Council Rock would not be what it is without them.”

The new contract builds in a salary schedule increase of 1.75 percent to be applied at the start of the school year next year and the year following, and a salary schedule increase of 1.75% to be applied midyear after that.

Movement of an employee on the salary schedule will occur midyear in 2022-2023, and at the start of the year in 2023-2024 and 2024-2025.

The cost of all salary and benefit changes is $1,254,131 for 2022-2023; $1,998,687 for 2023-2024; and $1,030,896 for 2024-2025. According to the agreement, increased expenses will be offset by the District’s uncommitted healthcare fund excess, which was funded by contributions made by members of the bargaining unit.

Assistant Superintendent Susan Elliott told educators, “I look forward to our continued work together.” She once again filled Superintendent Robert Fraser's spot Thursday night, as he remains on leave.

The board also voted unanimously to increase substitute teacher pay within the existing contract, a response to the substitute teacher shortage this district and others are experiencing.

Council Rock board meetings and agendas can be viewed online.

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