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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND UNITED TEACHERS OF DADE REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT MIAMI – Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) and United Teachers of Dade (UTD) reached a tentative agreement tonight that will provide step and salary increases for teachers and support personnel represented by UTD for a total package worth $38.7 million, putting beginning teacher salaries in Miami-Dade County on a par with Palm Beach and Broward counties. Because of dire economic conditions last year, step increases for teachers had to be deferred, but were achieved this year because of an employee protection fund established by Superintendent of Schools Alberto M. Carvalho. “In the middle of the worst economic conditions of our lives, we were able to secure a three-year contract that protects teachers and settles long disputes,” said Carvalho. “Tonight we celebrate public education and honor our teachers and the children they serve.” Step increases will be effective December 25, 2009. Step enhancements for teachers in the first twelve steps will be increased effective February 19, 2010. The tentative agreement represents a total compensation package inclusive of health insurance, which retains a health insurance option at no cost to employees. This consists of two open-access point-of-service platforms with national provider access. If selected by all employees, a savings of $53 million will be achieved. The agreement must be ratified by UTD members and approved by the Miami-Dade School Board. # # # 09-JJS/038/GC |
