The Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District (MSBSD) recently negotiated a new agreement with its teachers` union, the Matanuska-Susitna Education Association (MSEA). The agreement covers a wide range of issues related to teacher compensation, benefits, and working conditions.
One of the key elements of the agreement is a salary increase for teachers. Under the new agreement, all teachers will see a 2.5% increase in their base salary, with an additional 1% increase for teachers who have been with the district for ten years or more. This is in line with similar agreements negotiated by other school districts in the state.
The agreement also includes changes to the district`s health insurance plan. Beginning in January 2022, the district will switch to a new provider, which will result in lower premiums for teachers. The district will also cover 100% of the premiums for dental and vision insurance.
Another important element of the agreement is a new provision related to workload. Teachers will now have a maximum number of classes they are required to teach per day, which will vary depending on the grade level and subject they teach. This is aimed at reducing teacher burnout and improving student outcomes by ensuring that teachers have adequate time to plan lessons and grade assignments.
The agreement also includes a provision related to professional development. Teachers will now be required to complete a certain number of hours of professional development each year, which can include workshops, conferences, and other training opportunities. This is designed to ensure that teachers stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and best practices.
Overall, the new MSBSD negotiated agreement is a positive development for both teachers and students. By providing fair compensation, improving benefits, and addressing workload issues, the district is taking steps to attract and retain high-quality teachers. This, in turn, will lead to improved outcomes for students and a stronger, more successful school district.