Rochester City School District
Media Advisory
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
July 22, 2021
Editor Contact:
Marisol Ramos-Lopez
585.455.2844 (m)
RCSD and RTA Reach Modified Contract Extension Agreement for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 School Years 
The Rochester City School District (RCSD) and the Rochester Teachers Association (RTA) have reached a Modified Extension Agreement of their current collective bargaining agreement through the 2021-22 school year. Negotiations began on June 30, 2019 and included working with the Public Employees Relation Board (PERB). A fact-finding recommendation was issued by PERB, which contributed significantly to the outcome. This fall, the RCSD and the RTA will resume negotiations toward a full successor agreement to address the needs of schools, teachers and especially students. Earlier today, the extension was endorsed by the RTA’s Representative Assembly and was approved this evening by the Board of Education by a vote of 6 to 0.

Highlights of the agreement are as follows:

  • The agreement includes a total 4.3% increase in teacher salaries and provides 3.3% for this year and an additional 1% added to last year’s 2.3% already granted through the existing contract. This contract extension runs through June 30, 2022.

  • The agreement also includes additional compensation increases for athletic coaches.
 
RCSD Superintendent Dr. Lesli Myers-Small said, “I am delighted that we have reached an agreement that is beneficial for all involved and helps us to recruit and retain our educators. Our teachers are doing tremendous work for our scholars and did so throughout the COVID-19 health crisis.” She added, “The negotiation process prompted good dialogue between the two sides and sets the foundation for resumed negotiations this coming fall.”

RTA President Adam Urbanski echoed the sentiments of the Superintendent. “We all can now focus on a smooth and safe reopening of our schools and on continuing to provide the best academic, social and emotional support to all our students.”

Dr. Myers-Small continued, “Special thanks to the RTA leadership for their partnership and work in getting this contract extension solidified.”
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