The Parkland School District Board of School Directors and the Parkland Education Association reached a 3-year contract agreement when the Parkland School Board approved a new contract May 13.

The district’s teachers ratified the agreement before the board meeting.

The agreement will be in effect Sept. 1 through Aug. 31, 2028.

The PEA represents approximately 723 members, including teachers, nurses, guidance counselors and other professional staff. The contract includes annual salary increases of 3.5% in the first year, 3.6% in the second year and 3.7% in the third year. These percentages reflect the total increase to the members’ salary structure, which includes both base salary increases and step increases on the salary scale related to years of service and levels of postsecondary education.

Stipend salaries for athletic coaches, department chairs and student activity advisers will also increase by the same percentage each year.

Employees under this agreement will have a choice between three medical insurance Preferred Provider Organization programs in the first year of the agreement, with one plan sunsetting in year two.

Employee contributions will move to a percentage of premium for each year of the agreement. By the end of the three year agreement, employee contributions will range from 3%-9% of premiums based on the plan design.

“Our professional staff are the core of our work with students. Attracting and retaining highly qualified teachers is essential. The negotiations process was professional and collaborative, leading to a fair and fiscally responsible contract that recognizes the skills and dedication of our employees in their vital roles at Parkland,” Dr. Mark Madson, superintendent, said.

“We are pleased a pact has been reached that allows the district to grow and continue meeting the needs of our students. This three-year agreement ensures Parkland will remain one of the best employers in the Lehigh Valley. As with any product of negotiation, this agreement represents countless hours of work, discussion and ultimately compromise. We believe it reflects a commitment to our educators and the Parkland Education Association looks forward to its successful implementation,” Sandi Gackenbach, president of the Parkland Education Association, said.