Arlington Public Schools Collective Bargaining Agreement: What You Need to Know

A collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is a legally binding contract between a union and an employer that outlines the terms and conditions of employment. In Arlington, Virginia, the Arlington Public Schools (APS) CBA governs the employment of teachers, instructional assistants, and other school staff.

The APS CBA covers a wide range of topics, including salaries, benefits, working conditions, and job security. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Salary: The CBA establishes salary scales based on education and experience. Teachers and other staff members receive periodic step increases and can also earn additional pay for advanced degrees, certifications, and other qualifications.

Benefits: The CBA provides comprehensive health and retirement benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Staff members can also participate in a 401(k) plan and a deferred compensation plan.

Working conditions: The CBA sets standards for class size, planning time, and other aspects of the workday. It also provides for professional development opportunities and specifies the types of evaluations that will be conducted.

Job security: The CBA includes provisions for layoffs and recalls, as well as grievance procedures and due process rights. It also protects staff members from arbitrary or discriminatory actions by the employer.

Negotiations: The APS CBA is negotiated between the Arlington Education Association (AEA) and the APS Board. The two sides typically meet every three years to discuss changes to the agreement and set new terms.

Overall, the APS CBA is designed to ensure that teachers and other staff members are fairly compensated and treated, and that they have a voice in the decisions that affect their work. By creating a stable and supportive work environment, the CBA helps to attract and retain the best educators and support staff, which ultimately benefits Arlington`s students and community.