On December 11, 2024, the Center Cass Board of Education unanimously approved a five year contract with the Center Cass Education Association. The new contract will run through August 2030.
A few highlights of the new agreement include:
more student instructional hours at Prairieview and Elizabeth Ide Elementary Schools,
an additional instructional day for students,
an additional development day for teachers,
the reduction of three half days,
a more flexible approach to employee schedules,
increased development for paraprofessionals,
more competitive compensation package to attract and retain employees
In a statement from Board President Liane Raso “The Board of Education would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the CCEA for their professionalism, dedication, and collaborative spirit in working with us in negotiating a new contract that will benefit our students, educators, and our community. This newly ratified contract reflects our shared commitment to fostering an environment where both students and educators can thrive. Our Board recognizes the importance of attracting and retaining highly qualified teachers, and this agreement includes improvements in compensation, benefits, and support for professional development, while providing the district and the community financial certainty to be able to ensure the long-term sustainability of our district.”
In a statement from Association Leader CCEA Co-President Mark Safranski “The CCEA is very pleased with the collaborative spirit in which the School Board, Administration, Teachers and Paraprofessionals negotiated a contract that moves our district forward. Students will benefit from increased instructional time and new learning opportunities and our members will have better professional growth as educators. Our new five year contract is a platform for educational progress while giving our community stability and security. It was a win for everyone”
Superintendent Andrew WIse complimented the Board and Association for the teamwork displayed in reaching a new five year agreement, sharing “I couldn’t be prouder of our Board, Association, and Community, who have all stepped up to ensure that our students are provided experiences that students in larger districts receive while still getting the personalized touch that a smaller district can provide. The educational, operational, and facility enhancements that have, and will continue to blossom, are attributed to the congruency between parents, employees, and community, all with children as our number one priority.”
The Center Cass Education Association represents approximately 100 certified educators and 25 paraprofessionals.