By an overwhelming amount, the paras at Orange- Ulster BOCES approved a successor four year deal. “The 338-4 vote count not only reflected the high interest of the membership in this settlement, but the welcome acceptance of our negotiating team’s efforts,” said Unit President Christine Bankston. Labor Relations Representative Rich Cormier offered, “The new agreement called for wage increases, in addition to new dental/vision for employees and dependents, increases in longevity amounts, increased unused sick day payout, increased health insurance buyout amounts, increased sick leave accumulation, increased bereavement leave and increased substitute pay.”

UPSEU Executive Vice President/Regional Director Gary M. Hickey who led the negotiating committee of Christine Bankston, Gayle Ballard, Laura Romano, and Labor Relations Representative Rich Cormier, said, “The team wanted to bring back the best deal we possibly could and we definitely did. Regardless of the fact that these times are not the best for securing superior settlements, we accomplished uncomparable results. The team worked long and hard for well over a year and we have a lot to show for it. It was heartwarming to hear the gratitude expressed by the members.” Hickey added, “As Christine said, we were just doing our jobs.”