School committee approves NEA contract after collaborative negotiations

The Barrington School Committee voted to approve a new contract with the local NEA affiliate following a period of negotiations the committee called collaborative.

Aubrey, the committee legal representative, and union representatives described the bargaining process as cooperative. One union speaker told the committee the tentative agreement was “well received” by membership and thanked the negotiating teams for a constructive approach.

In open session a motion to approve the contract was made, seconded and carried by voice vote. The committee also voted to ask the administration to check whether the NEA affiliate would like to issue a public statement announcing the ratification.

Committee members praised the negotiation process and said the agreement reflects the committee’s support for educators. The vote was recorded as “approved” in open session.