Kaneland support workers get 3, 4 percent raises in first contract

A previous version had an incorrect percent for raises in the third year of the contract. Workers will receive 3 percent raises.

The Kaneland school district and a union representing its support workers have reached - for the first time - a deal on a three-year labor contract.

The school board approved it Monday. Members of Support Professionals Education Association of Kaneland ratified it Aug. 25.

It covers about 140 full- and part-time workers, including secretaries, teaching assistants, food service workers, security workers, health aides and paraprofessionals.

The contract is retroactive to July 1, 2015.

Hourly pay rates were raised 4 percent for the 2015-16 fiscal year, 3 percent for 2016-17 and 3 percent for 2017-18.

Workers on a 12-month schedule will continue to receive 13 paid holidays. Those on a 10-month schedule will receive six paid holidays in 2016-17 and eight paid holidays in 2017-18.

The union is affiliated with the Illinois Education Association and National Education Association.

"I believe that the agreement that we reached is fair and equitable, and we look forward to a long and happy relationship," District 302 Board President Teresa Graue Witt said.

Board member Ryan Kerry voted against it.