The Barrington School Committee and the Barrington Educational Support Team (B.E.S.T.) are pleased to announce that a collective bargaining agreement has been reached.
After months of negotiations and a successful mediation session, this agreement reflects an understanding of the issues most important to our District and to our educational support staff and a commitment to the critically important contributions our paraeducators, secretaries, clerks, and bus drivers make to our students and schools.
"Reaching this agreement was a collaborative journey that underscores our collective vision for the District,” states Barrington School Committee Chair, Patrick McCrann. “Every paraeducator, secretary, clerk, and bus driver plays a vital role in shaping our students' futures, and this contract reflects our appreciation for their continued dedication and service."
Highlights of the agreement include:
An investment in our staff: All B.E.S.T. members will receive a raise of $2.50 per hour in FY2024, which accounts for an average raise of 11% percent across all pay levels during the first year of the agreement. B.E.S.T. members will also receive raises of 3% in both FY2025 and FY2026, a reflection of the District’s commitment to investing in our staff.
A commitment to professional development and opportunities for professional growth: The agreement includes the addition of 2 paid Professional Development days for 10-month B.E.S.T. employees that provide educational support staff with access to training and resources that expand their expertise.
A maximization of classroom time: In alignment with the National Education Association - Barrington (NEAB) contract, this Agreement replaces 5 vacation days for 10-month employees with 4 personal days. With an understanding that education is both incredibly rewarding and at times challenging, the addition of 4 personal days to B.E.S.T. leave benefits enable staff to prioritize their well-being and mental health during the school year while allowing for maximum classroom time and minimal disruption for students. Educational support employees and the District will continue to work together so that our students benefit from our outstanding educator talent every day.
Our educational support staff are key partners in our District’s ongoing work of providing all students with an exceptional educational experience, which this agreement reflects.
The District and School Committee recognize that negotiations take time and energy and greatly appreciate the dedication and care that all negotiating parties showed throughout this process.