The economic package sets salary increases, exclusive of increments, as follows: no increase for 2011-12, 0.5 percent for 2012-2013, and 0.75 percent for 2013-2014. In addition, teachers eligible for increments based on seniority will receive step increases.

The recently negotiated salary increases total about $247,000 for 2012-13, representing about two-tenths of one percent of the total school district budget of $109,732,677.

The agreement also includes provisions for implementing the new state-mandated teacher evaluation system known as the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR). The APPR plan is a key component because the state Education Department requires that school district plans be in place and approved by the state no later than Jan. 17, 2013. The school district faced the possible loss of $833,000 in state aid if it did not meet that deadline.

“APPR is a critical part of this agreement,” said Michael Piccirillo, superintendent of schools. “We commend the SSTA leadership and membership for their cooperation and collaboration in working toward this agreement. This plan will be beneficial for the teaching and learning that takes place in this district now and in the future.”

“The SSTA is pleased with the outcome of our contract and APPR plan,” said Karen Swift, SSTA president. “I am proud of the hard work the members did to produce an evaluation system that is not only fair for educators, but also supports their efforts to do their best for the students in this district.”

Regina Gapczynski, president of the Board of Education, said the agreement keeps the focus on what’s most important.

“It supports outstanding educational programs for our students and implements the new teacher evaluation system while remaining cognizant of the financial challenges faced by district residents,” Mrs. Gapczynski said.

Other than the new provisions for salary and APPR stated above, the new three-year agreement extends elements of the previous contract that expired in June 2011.