Detroit teachers union has tentative deal with new district

DETROIT – The union that represents Detroit teachers says it has struck a deal with the new district.

UPDATEDetroit teachers union releases details of tentative agreement with new school district

Teachers will learn more about the tentative contract Tuesday, the first day of the school year, and then vote later this week.

The Detroit district is formally known as the Detroit Public Schools Community District. It was created by the Legislature as part of a bailout of the old district.

Ivy Bailey, head of the Detroit Federation of Teachers, says the contract has "economic gains" for teachers and should satisfy parents. The deal won't take effect unless it's approved by teachers and the Financial Review Commission.

VIEWDetroit Federation of Teachers tentative agreement highlights

Bailey says it's not a perfect contract but it "turns the page" for teachers and people who want the 46,000-student district to be successful.

READDFT tentative agreement questions and answers

Bailey released the following statement:

"This agreement recognizes and values the voice and experience of Detroit’s educators. While not perfect, this deal turns the page and provides a new pathway for the district and our union to do right by the students, families and city of Detroit.

"Our priority has always been educating the students of this city, and this agreement makes that a little easier. Beyond economic gains for members, this deal will restore parents’ confidence in our schools and will help ensure that our students get the high-quality public education they deserve.

"Now it is up to our members -- folks who have been through quite a bit this year -- to review this agreement and make the final decision. This process will get underway tomorrow at our emergency membership meeting, followed by a school-by-school vote later this week."


About the Author

Nick joined the Local 4 team in February of 2015. Prior to that he spent 6 years in Sacramento covering a long list of big stories including wildfires and earthquakes. Raised in Sterling Heights, he is no stranger to the deep history and pride Detroit has to offer.

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