District 157-C Board and Teachers' Association Reach New Contract Agreement

FRANKFORT, IL — A collaborative effort between the Frankfort School District 157-C Board of Education and the Frankfort Teachers’ Association has resulted in the approval of a new four-year contract agreement. The Frankfort Teachers’ Association members voted on May 16, approving the contract. The Board of Education was presented with the contract at its regular Board meeting on May 18 and it was approved by a unanimous vote of the board members.

The Frankfort Teachers’ Association and the Frankfort School District Board of Education agree that collaborative decision making and continuous, open dialogue should be fostered to promote a collaborative culture. The negotiating team included Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maura Zinni, Board of Education President Gina Briese, Vice President Dr. Brian Sasso and member Tom Reidy, along with Frankfort Teachers’ Association President Kellie Aranowski and teachers Michele Hannigan, Mary DeFrank and Susan Niendorf. Beginning in January 2016, the representatives met informally and formally, working together with a collaborative approach of open dialogue, trust and understanding. The Board of Education and the Frankfort Teachers’ Association take great pride in the district’s progressive and proactive stance on education and the resulting accomplishments and honors achieved.

Board of Education President Gina Briese stated, “I believe the Board of Education and the teachers union successfully worked together to develop a contract that promotes high quality education in a fiscally responsible manner.”

The new four-year contract will be effective from July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2020. The salary system and base salary increases for teachers will include 3.5 percent increases in the first two years of the contract and 3 percent increases in the last two years of the contract.

Frankfort Teachers’ Association President Kellie Aranowski said, "The Frankfort Teachers' Association was committed to working with the school board to reach an agreement that both groups believe to be fair. We believe both sides are pleased with the outcome of this negotiation. As we continue to work together, it is our goal to keep the lines of communication open to foster a healthy relationship that is best for the students and staff of Frankfort School District 157-C."

Superintendent Dr. Zinni stated, “This contract not only fairly compensates our teachers, it also allows the district to continue to implement an outstanding educational program for our students while ensuring long-term financial stability.”

The negotiating team was pleased that the contract they crafted together was approved. Superintendent Dr. Zinni continued, "This agreement recognizes the outstanding achievements of the Frankfort 157-C schools and the role our teaching staff has played in our students’ strong academic foundation and preparation for a successful experience in high school, college and life-long careers.”