Board accepts 2025-26 negotiated agreement with Piper Teachers Association; overall package 3.98%

The board voted to accept the 2025-26 negotiated agreement with the Piper Teachers Association after district staff presented the terms July 14. Jenny Hurley, who led the presentation, said the agreement includes minor language changes and a salary/benefit package representing a 3.98% total increase, consisting of salary adjustments and increased district contributions toward health insurance.

Hurley said the Teachers Association had ratified the agreement prior to the board meeting and that the agreement includes a memorandum of understanding to create a committee to review the supplemental salary schedule ahead of next year's negotiations. A board representative asked whether any memoranda of understanding would create follow-up topics for next year; Hurley confirmed the supplemental salary schedule study is planned.

The board approved the negotiated agreement by recorded vote; one board member recused from discussion earlier in the meeting and was not part of the final tally. District staff noted the contract language changes were minor and the primary substantive effect of the action is the compensation package. Staff will implement the salary schedule as negotiated and follow the MOU timeline for the supplemental schedule committee.