*For Immediate Release*
BEDFORD SCHOOL BOARD AND BEDFORD EDUCATIONAL PERSONNEL ASSOCIATION AND BEDFORD EDUCATION SUPPORT STAFF ASSOCIATION AGREE ON NEW CONTRACT
The Bedford School Board (BSB), the Bedford Educational Personnel Association (BEPA) and the Bedford Education Support Staff Association (BESSA) are pleased to announce new agreements for three-year contracts that will govern the 2020-2021, 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 school years.
BEPA consists of all Instructional Teaching Assistants, Secretaries, Clerks, and School Nutrition staff.
BESSA consists of all custodians and maintenance staff.
The new agreements were ratified unanimously by the BSB and a majority of Association members. The agreements reflect the level of dedication the staff has to the students in the Bedford School District.
“There are more than three hundred employees covered by the BEPA and BESSA Agreements.” Stated School Board Chair Jay Nash. “These employees are critically important partners in delivering top-notch education in Bedford. This agreement recognizes their contribution and keeps Bedford competitive in terms of attracting top talent. It was a pleasure to work with true partners as we looked forward to the next three years.”
The BEPA Agreement, increases the salary schedule by $165,227 in the first year, $102,740 in the second year and $102,740 in the third year. The BESSA Agreement, increases the salary schedule $50,715 in the first year, $49,553 in the second year and $58,203 in the third year.
Superintendent Mike Fournier said “I continue to be impressed with the level of professionalism and dedication to our students and facilities by all members of BEPA and BESSA. These contracts represent a fair and equitable way in which we recognize and compensate for these important members of our team.”
“Our team got a lot of insight into what both sides need to make a successful negotiation happen.” Said Jami Roy, BESSA President. “I am pleased that negotiations went well and that our needs were listened to throughout the process. I hope the residents of Bedford also support our agreement.”
BEPA President, Paula Hall stated “We really enjoyed participating in the collective bargaining process with the School Board representatives. We had some interesting discussions and are proud to present our new agreement to the voters. We ask for your support to pass this agreement.”
BEPA, BESSA and BSB urge all voters to attend the Deliberative Session at 7 pm on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at the Bedford High School Theater. Information about both Agreements will be communicated at the Deliberative Session.
Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 in the Bedford High School Gymnasium where both warrant articles will be presented to voters.
