Beachwood Schools Approves Teacher Contract

The Beachwood Board of Education approved a three-year contract with the Beachwood Federation of Teachers at a special meeting this morning.

The contract freezes teacher pay for the first year — the same freeze that administrators took this year. The collective bargaining agreement raises pay by 1.75 percent in the 2013-2014 school year and by 2 percent in 2014-2015.

Throughout the three-year term of the contract, teachers will be able to change "lanes" or earn a higher salary if they obtain additional degrees and educational credit hours.

"The hard work and negotiations progressed in an exemplary manner and was spirited, intense, honest, respectful and fair to all parties involved," Board President Brian Weiss said.

BFT Union President Evan Luzar said a highlight of the agreement is the formation of a group involving both parties that will evaluate teachers based on student growth. This will be done to comply with forthcoming state legislation.

"The Federation and district have created a structure of collaboration that is meaningful, effective and productive as we deal with new laws regarding teacher evaluations," Luzar said. "The new evaluation committee will be comprised of 11 members of faculty and five members of the administration, chaired by the superintendent."

Luzar added that the BFT increased its medical contributions from 6 to 10 percent in the new agreement. Medical deductibles have also increased to $800 for single employees and $1,600 for families.

The contract takes effect on Sept. 1 and ends Aug. 31, 2015.

"The final product shows consideration for the long-term financial health of the district," Beachwood Superintendent Rich Markwardt said. "It was a very good contract."

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