The Bethel BOE Paraeducators/ABA's overwhelmingly approved a 3 year successor agreement with above market wage increases in each year of the contract. This was the first successor contract negotiated by UPSEU, as the unit was previously represented by CWA Local 1103.
During negotiations, the committee, led by Matt Geer of UPSEU advocated for a title change, due to the job evolving over the years. The union was successful in changing the title of "Paraprofessional" to "Paraeducator", as this is the title recognized by the Connecticut Department of Special Education and by Governor Malloy. This particular item was very important to the members to have their jobs accurately reflected in their job title.
In addition, the new contract includes numerous other improvements such as an additional paid holiday for ABA's due to work performed during the summer, increased life insurance by $10,000 for each member, hygiene stipend increase, increased bereavement leave, increased sick leave accumulation time, added mileage reimbursement language, and added lunch break language. The union was also able to add language to the contract regarding employees receiving 2 week's notice prior to any involuntary transfer, as in past years the members were transferred with no notice at all. Members will also now receive their employment notification for the following year fifteen days earlier.
The negotiation process was professionally conducted by both parties from start to finish, which according to the committee, was a change from previous negotiations with CWA at the helm. The negotiating committee, consisting of Unit President Pat Heinzer, Cathi McCabe, Marisa Dilorio, Shari Kliegl, Mary Ellen Calzone, and Elisa Bartolini, did a terrific job advocating on behalf of the entire membership to ensure the best possible successor agreement. All of their hard work and tireless efforts were instrumental in reaching a great contract for our Bethel BOE Paraeducator/ABA membership.
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