HCTA and HCSD bargaining teams returned to the table to continue 2023-24 contract discussions on July 27th.
The HCSD team opened the session with a proposal for two supplemental positions funded by Title I to pay instructional staff at Title I schools to provide support for documenting compliance with Title I requirements and planning and supporting Title I family engagement events. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by both parties.
The District team also shared two new job descriptions within the instructional unit. One was for an instructional position to serve as District Athletic Director. The second job description was for a district Teacher on Special Assignment for Guidance Services K-Adult. HCTA is reviewing these and seeking feedback from members.
In an effort to address all salary improvement in one agreement, HCTA offered a counter to the District's TSIA-only proposal presented at the prior session. HCTA's counter proposal seeks a 5% market adjustment for all returning teachers and a $500 increase for all new hires in addition to the HCSD TSIA proposal. HCTA acknowledged the District's concern for achieving agreement and ratification of a plan specifically for TSIA funds by the state's October 1st deadline, while expressing optimism that an early settlement and ratification of a complete salary package would be beneficial for the recruitment and retention of teachers. The HCSD team was not able to respond to the proposal at this meeting and did not opt to schedule a follow-up bargaining session.
HCTA will reach out to members to provide notice of upcoming dates as they are scheduled. At this time, members are encouraged to attend the school board meetings and communicate with board members to encourage support for an early salary agreement.