Averill Park School District Workers Overwhelmingly Approve New Agreement

As an independent association for the past ten years, numerous members sought change to an alternative union, one with proven results. The unit of approximately 260 employees, who work as clerical, custodial, maintenance, paraprofessionals, and transportation employees, were represented by CSEA, AFSCME for many years, prior to decertifying them ten years ago.

After voting for UPSEU in a April 2007, PERB election, we went right to work in bringing the fractured unit together. Significant divisive issues existed amongst various departments in the unit. UPSEU Labor Relations Representative Gary Favro worked day after day to successfully bring the unit to a point where members understood the issues relevant to each sub group.

After compiling a laundry list of changes to present to the District, we began a lengthy negotiation process. Basically reviewing each word and making numerous language improvements, the respective negotiating committees reached a complete agreement. The settlement included:

•  above average salary increases
•  increases in longevity amounts
•  holidays
•  unused sick leave payout
•  call back pay
•  uniform allowance
•  education stipends
•  improvements in field trip bid system
•  snow day language
•  new sick leave pool committee
•  separate bereavement leave benefit
•  new dental and optical plans
•  health insurance buyouts
•  shoe allowance
•  summer work benefits and
• unused sick leave payouts, just to name a few.

A great effort was put forth by the negotiating team and our shop stewards to create an excellent contract and resolve long standing labor management issues. Chief Negotiator Executive Vice President/Regional Director, Gary M. Hickey thanked the elected team, Keri Davis, Michael Hicks, Jody St.Pierre, Lewis Dobert, Janice Liberty, Mark Premo, Jill Teal, Lorna Otty and Susan Radley "who provided valuable insight and guidance on behalf of their co-workers. Numerous thank you’s were heard during the ratification process. I personally want to extend my thanks for their joint effort put forth to reach this great deal."

Employees ratified the contract with a 90 % affirmative vote.