The Jefferson County Education Association (JCEA) bargaining team convened last week to negotiate the JCEA contract and compensation. The session began with the presentation of a new article focused on post-incident response after events of school violence. This was developed in light of the recent Evergreen shooting and aims to offer guidance and protections should similar incidents occur in the future. This article has reached a tentative agreement.
The district has also collaborated with JCEA on improving practices in special education, including induction programs and crisis response. However, discussions stalled when district management did not budge from previous proposals, overlooking issues related to leave payouts and current plans. Their response cited a desire to allocate funds solely toward compensation.
In terms of compensation, the district’s initial offer was met with disappointment. Educators were presented with the option of a pay freeze this year or next year, contingent on passing a mill levy override. Any proposal that involves a pay freeze is deemed unacceptable by the JCEA. However, the district acknowledged prior oversight in pay steps for senior educators by offering a one-time bonus for those affected and added National Certified Counselors to the stipend list.
With just three bargaining sessions remaining, the JCEA emphasizes the importance of educator presence at future meetings. Members are encouraged to participate in solidarity events, including showing up in designated colors and sharing their support on social media. Additionally, educators are reminded to keep track of their leave balances as they pertain to sick and personal leave.
For ongoing updates, educators can visit the JCEA bargaining action page.
The primary source was https://jcea.coloradoea.org/district-managements-compensation-offer/.
