CHENEY, Wash. — The Cheney Education Association (CEA) approved their new contract with Cheney Public Schools (CPS) on Monday after reaching a tentative agreement, officially avoiding a potential strike.
The tentative agreement announcement was made by CEA and CPS late Friday night.
"We worked very hard to make sure our member's priorities were addressed through bargaining," said Meridth Lemelin, Cheney Education Association President.
The CEA met on Monday, August 26, when members heard details of the tentative agreement and had a ratification vote. CEA members approved the new contract with 94% approval.
"Our educators here in Cheney have the support that they need from a collective bargaining agreement that's fair and supports the teachers along with our students who are part of our Cheney community," said Lemelin.
Cheney School District approved contract lists an 18% salary increase over the next three years to their educators. This includes a 7.2% increase in the first year, a 5% increase in the second year and a 5.8% increase in the third year.
The CPS released the following statement in an email sent to CPS families, staff and community members:
"We are happy to announce that the Cheney Education Association and its members ratified the tentative agreement with the District this afternoon. We appreciate the hard work done by both negotiation teams in coming to an agreement. The 2024-2025 school year will begin as scheduled."