By CRISTINA JANNEY
Hays Post
The Hays school board approved a contract with the Hays NEA at its meeting Monday night.
The agreement for the 2020-21 school year includes one vertical step and horizontal movement for all licensed staff. There will be $680 added onto the base pay for the 2020-21 school year.
The agreement also addresses the new student schedule at Hays Middle School and a revised clause on compensation for mentor teachers.
Board President Mike Walker, who was on the negotiating team for the board, said he thought everyone was working toward the same direction during negotiations.
Board member Tammy Wellbrock said she was proud of both sides.
"I think there was thorough, fair, comprehensive and timely discussion," she said.
Teachers and the board were unable to come to an agreement on their 2019-20 contract until February. The two sides came to impasse and brought in federal mediation before finally coming to an agreement.
Stumbling blocks during the 2019-20 contract negotiations included pay and insurance.
Classified staff
The board also approved a 2.48 percent raise for classified employees and administrators. This is the same percentage increase that was recommended for certified teaching staff.
The pay increase will be retroactive to July 1.