The Olentangy Board of Education on Wednesday voted unanimously to approve one-year contract extensions for both of the district’s classified unions. The agreements, which affect approximately 260 bus drivers, custodians, maintenance workers and field service staff members, include freezes on both wages and step increases, saving the district $150,000.
In June the board approved a wage and step-increase freeze for the district’s 300 classified, non-union employees for a savings of approximately $200,000.
Superintendent Wade Lucas, Ed.D. said that Olentangy staff members understand the district is facing financial challenges including reductions in state funding and local property values.
“Our staff is committed to this district and to the community,” said Lucas. “They understand where we are financially, and they are ready to help. I can’t say enough about the great people working for the students of this district.”
Board of Education President Julie Wagner Feasel said these cost-savings measures will help the district keep its focus on academics while continuing to be responsible with taxpayer dollars.
“The board wants to ensure that Olentangy continues to offer an excellent education and fulfill its mission of facilitating maximum learning for every student,” said Feasel. “At the same time, we feel it is critical to keep our promise that the May 2011 levy will last at least three years, despite the reductions in property values and our state funding.”
Olentangy’s teachers approved a one-year contract extension last fall. This extension will be in effect during the 2011-12 school year and includes a wage freeze.
All three union contracts are now set to expire on June 30, 2012.