OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Fredonia Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox detailed the district’s agreement with the Fredonia Teachers’ Association at a recent Board of Education meeting.

Now that the ink has dried, Fredonia Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox is comfortable providing details of the contract extension between the district and the Fredonia Teachers’ Association.

Overall, the new contract shows an increase of 4.63% in wages from the previous contract. Factoring in step increases in line with what was already negotiated, the “new money” increase to teacher salaries averages an extra 2.57% above step over the new four-year deal. The agreement took effect retroactive to July 1, and it runs through June 30, 2029.

The new contract adds an additional work day for teachers, increasing from 184 to 185 days. Additionally, teachers from Pre-K to Grade 4 added a half day to match teachers of Grades 5-8. Instructional leaders were reorganized to align with curriculum and statewide standards, and team leader stipends were equalized with instructional leaders. Contract language was clarified within the grievance process and in the definition of a prolonged illness.

Health insurance contributions increase from 16% to 17% over the course of the contract. The retirement incentive was also changed to account for accumulated sick days. Teachers are also now awarded 10 paid parental leave days upon birth or adoption of a child. The district felt that these concessions help offset the cost of other increases, such as salary increases.

The district evaluated the agreements that other districts across Chautauqua County and parts of Erie County have approved in recent years to serve as a reference point for its negotiations. Many of the agreements the district evaluated showed salary increases of 5-6%. Zilliox stressed the importance of remaining “competitive in the market” for qualified teachers, as the district has noticed a decrease in applicants for open positions compared to many years ago.

“We want to attract great teachers. We also want to show respect and honor our current teachers who do a fantastic job for our students and community,” Zilliox said.

Zilliox offered thanks to both sides of the negotiations. He described the process as “polite, respectful, and productive.” Zilliox reiterated his stance that the agreement is fair for both sides, and characterized it as “a win-win.”

Zilliox also added that at the next meeting of the Board of Education, Oct. 21, the district hopes to have a new contract with the Salaried Support Staff Association (SSSA) on the agenda for potential approval. Zilliox said the district is “getting close to a final agreement.”

At the recent meeting, permanent status was granted to Joshua Copeland, a cleaner, and Kathy Schutz, a food service helper, after successfully completing their probationary terms of employment. Carmen Bonilla was appointed as a food service helper and substitute cleaner. Julie Zook was appointed as a substitute food service helper.

Three new teacher aides were hired, including Marissa Burr, Andrew Camp, and Kiersten Brown. University students Noelle Mendez and Gianna Rayonne were approved for observation of Fredonia teacher Mason Redmond.

A correction to the 2024-2025 tax roll was also approved, as well as several athletics fundraisers. An overnight trip to Camp Mission Meadows was approved for the varsity/junior varsity boys basketball team, along with the annual Drills & Skills Clinic on Friday, Nov. 28.

The Board also heard comments from Julie Mikula, a Fredonia resident and parent who was critical of the district’s athletic fundraisers. Mikula felt that her child’s efforts to raise money as a volleyball athlete were not met with an adequate return on her investment. Zilliox stated at the recent meeting that he expects to respond to her inquiries regarding fundraising in the coming days.

The Board began its latest meeting with a moment of silence in remembrance of Jean Morse, a retired Fredonia teacher who recently passed away.

The next meeting of the Fredonia Board of Education is Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m. in the High School Library.