Negotiations 4-27-26

This meeting of the Calendars USD negotiation team on April 27, 2026, focused primarily on contract language updates, teacher plan time protections, retirement leave buyback proposals, mentor program stipends, and compensation rates for extra duty work such as summer school and jump start programs. The parties discussed adjustments to plan time scheduling to ensure teachers receive adequate individual planning minutes without mandating back-to-back scheduling, with particular attention to middle school plan time. They negotiated retirement leave buyback percentages tied to years of service and agreed on updated language reflecting current substitute pay rates. The mentor program was reviewed with proposals to provide stipends for veteran teachers serving as mentors or buddies, distinct from instructional coaches' duties. Compensation rates for extra duty assignments were considered for consolidation and potential increases, noting that current rates have not changed since 2020 and are lower than long-term substitute pay. A significant portion of the meeting addressed collaboration time, specifically the continuation of Wednesday collaboration sessions, exploring alternatives such as sprinkling collaboration days throughout the year or early release days to balance instructional time and professional development. Financial constraints were discussed, including budget increases, mill levy caps, and the impact on general fund allocations. The group planned to reconvene with proposed calendar drafts and financial analyses to further negotiate contract terms and compensation impacts.