HCPSSHCPSS and HCEA-ESP Reach Tentative Agreement
July 8th, 2015
The Howard County Board of Education and Howard County Education Association-Educational Support Professionals (HCEA-ESP) announced today that, with the assistance of a mediator, they have reached a tentative agreement on a two-year contract, covering the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 school years. HCEA-ESP is the organization that represents non-certificated educational support employees.
“Howard County schools are synonymous with excellence, and reflect the talent, dedication, and commitment of all members of our outstanding staff,” noted Board of Education Chairman Janet Siddiqui. “We are pleased that this agreement allows us to compensate employees appropriately for their vital work.”
The tentative agreement, subject to ratification by the association membership and approval by the Board of Education, provides for a one-step increment for eligible employees, and a re-indexing of the top step to reflect a one percent increase, both effective December 24, 2015. In addition, employees will work one fewer day during the 2015-2016 school year. The agreement is for two years, with a provision that compensation, holidays, and up to one article identified by each party may be reopened for negotiation for the 2016-2017 school year.
“Our education support professionals fulfill an essential role in providing the best education for every child,” said Superintendent Renee A. Foose. “I am pleased that we have reached an agreement that recognizes their important contribution to student success.”
“When we work together to provide financial stability, acknowledging the qualities our support staff brings to the learning environment, this makes the whole school environment a better place to teach, work, and learn,” said HCEA President Paul Lemle. “In addition to an improved compensation package, we look forward to the labor/management collaboration to serve as a new forum to discuss issues of mutual interest and concern. Open communication is key to the successful operation of any school system and Howard County should be one of the best.”
The Board of Education and HCEA-ESP plan to formally ratify and sign the agreement in September 2015.
Renee A. Foose, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Paul Lemle, President
Howard County Education Association