BREAKING: The U-46 School Board has just approved a critical new contract that guarantees a 12% hourly wage increase for paraeducators in the first year. This agreement comes as part of a four-year deal with the District U-46 Educational Assistants Union, which represents these essential educational staff members.
Starting in the 2025-26 school year, paraeducators will see their hourly wages rise by $2.25, bringing pay rates to between $20.23 and $29.58 based on experience and job classification. By the 2028-29 school year, hourly wages are expected to range from $24.73 to $34.08, according to a district news release.
The union overwhelmingly ratified the agreement on September 10, 2023, and the school board followed suit with a decisive vote on September 24, 2023. “This is a collaborative agreement that recognizes the important role our paraeducators play in our students’ education,” stated U-46 Superintendent Suzanne Johnson.
Union President Tina Pizzitola emphasized the significance of the agreement, declaring, “We were seeking an agreement that allowed our members to feel confident in their profession as well as begin a path to appropriate compensation.” The contract also introduces expanded onboarding, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
In a notable change, the new contract restructures paraeducator classifications from three categories to two, labeled A and B. Those transitioning from Category C will receive a one-time $1,250 stipend. Additionally, paraeducators will be eligible for stipends of up to $2,500 based on their step pay schedule positioning.
The contract outlines plans for a mentor program aimed at attracting and retaining high-quality staff, to be developed this school year with a goal of launching in the 2026-27 school year. Participation in this program will be optional for new hires, emphasizing the district’s commitment to professional growth.
Furthermore, the new agreement updates the work calendar to allow more time for professional learning, enhancing the support provided to paraeducators who work in various educational settings including general education, special education, early childhood, dual language classrooms, and libraries.
Union member Jose Perez expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts during negotiations, stating, “I am deeply grateful for the collaborative spirit that the union and U-46 have shown throughout this process.”
This historic contract not only addresses immediate financial concerns but also lays the groundwork for improving the overall quality of education within District U-46. As the school year progresses, all eyes will be on how these changes impact paraeducators and the students they serve.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
