![]() "The association was seeking modest wage increases from the onset of negotiations for its members that wouldn’t be eroded by increased benefit premium share levies. The district contended that the association members already enjoy one of the more favorable compensation and benefit packages in the area, given the township’s disadvantaged financial state and reliance on high real estate taxes," Larry Chesawich, the PLRB fact-finder noted. "The district entered these negotiations envisioning budget deficits due to revenue shortfalls and expanding capital project needs in a township already suffering from the highest tax burden in Bucks County. The report also expressed concern that the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on district funding this year and in the future was not fully known. The district has 6,420 students including 1,400 receiving special education services and 68% receiving free or subsidized lunches. It calls for newer teachers to receive payments of $750 more each year of the pact, and for added steps for more experienced teachers to keep their salaries competitive with wages offered in other area school districts.Īccording to the fact-finder report, the district's 454 teachers made an average salary of $86,431 under the old contract. The contract will be retroactive to Sept. ![]() We will continue to focus on working together effectively, and promoting student growth and achievement," said district Superintendent Melanie Gehrens. "Bristol Township School District is happy to resolve the contract with the BTEA. He declined to comment further, saying he didn't have time to speak Tuesday and suggested contacting Sweigard. The Bristol Township Education Association, the teachers' union, ratified the pact two days later, said Bradley Pawlikowski, a spokesman for the union. The board also unanimously passed a resolution allowing for up to a 4% increase in property taxes when the district prepares its budget for the 2021-22 school year. Board member Constance Moore voted against it. 14 meeting, voting 8-1 to adopt the contract. The school board agreed to the fact-finder's terms at its Dec. The two sides reached out to the Pennsylvania Labor Relations Board in February last year and a fact-finder took on the negotiations in April. "The estimated cost to the district is $4M (million) in additional wages and benefits over the four-year term of the contract," said district Business Manager Joshua Sweigard. The Bristol Township School District and its teachers' union have reached a contract settlement more than a year after their previous contract expired.
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