Dec 19, 2014 By David Singer 1 min read

After 16 months of negotiations between district officials and the local teacher’s union, South Fayette teachers have a new five-year contract starting in the 2015-16 school year.

“We’re happy with where we arrived,” said South Fayette Education Association president David Taylor, a math teacher in the district. “Considering the financial constraints the school is under with future construction and expansion, we’re pleased with the deal. It was a 127-18 vote on our side, and in politics, that’s pretty much a mandate.”

The contract approved at a Dec. 18 special meeting provides a 3.49 percent budgetary payroll increase over five years, according to director of finance Brian Tony. That includes attrition and step movement (promotions) across the salary schedule.

“Additionally, teachers will contribute increasing amounts toward health, dental and vision benefits. And, an additional student day will be added in the third year,” Tony said.

“The (result of negotiations) has been a fiscally responsible agreement that provides benefits to the district and teachers, and supports the tradition, pride and excellence that the South Fayette Township School District strives to maintain and advance,” said superintendent Dr. Billie Rondinelli.