School district and teachers union unite after contract deal

With a contract agreement reached between the Philadelphia School District and its teachers — the two sides projected an image of unity today. Last night the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers ratified a contract that will give teachers two separate – 3% raises.

With a contract agreement reached between the Philadelphia School District and its teachers — the two sides projected an image of unity today. Last night the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers ratified a contract that will give teachers two separate – 3% raises.

Listen:
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Philadelphia School District Superintendent Arlene Ackerman and PFT President Jerry Jordan stood side-by-side at the podium.

School Reform Commission chairman Robert Archie thanked both of them, and called the contract “historic.”

Archie: I’ve spoken to all of the Commissioners about the contract and while it awaits our formal approval next week, all of my colleagues have told me they’re happy with this contract. After all the contract is supportive of the School District’s strategic plans and its objectives.

Officials know improving the city’s long-troubled schools won’t be easy or cheap.

In addition to the pay raises in the contract, the District has budgeted $20 million for performance bonuses for teachers, especially those working in the lowest performing schools.