Students in the Longview and Evergreen school districts finally started their school years this week after district and union leaders agreed on contract terms Sunday.
Evergreen Education Association members ratified the agreement on Sunday afternoon, which means around 27,000 Evergreen students headed to their first day Monday.
Teachers will on average see raises of 11.5 percent, with salaries for new teachers starting at $51,619 and pay for the most experienced teachers with advanced degrees topping out at $98,279. The second year, that will increase to $53,474 to $100,618.
Here are some tentative details about the new agreement.
- School starts Monday, Sept. 10
- Last day of school unchanged, June 13
- Thanksgiving break shortened from five days to two
- School begins after winter break on January 2
"It’s been a tumultuous two weeks and so we’re glad to put that behind us – really focus on what we’re all trained to do which is take care of the kids educate the kids and welcome them back," said Gail Spolar, Evergreen Public Schools Spokesperson.
Longview Education Association and Longview Classified Public Employees Association ratified their contract Sunday evening. Classes will start Tuesday. Longview has about 6,500 students.
Teachers remain on strike in Battle Ground. On Sunday afternoon, Battle Ground School District announced classes are canceled Monday.