New Contract Means No Raises For District 220 Support Staff

Tough economic times mean many employees of Barrington School District 220 won't be getting a raise this year.

Barrington School Employees Organization, the bargaining unit for support staff of the district, recently approved a new three-year contract with the board of education.

Scott Moore, the president of the employees organization, said the decision wasn't easy, but it had to be done.     

"Given the economy, we have to think what's best for all," he said. "Although it is a tough pill to swallow, if this can save jobs and ensure better security in the long run, then it is in our best interest."

Although they aren't getting a raise this year, the members of the organization will receive a one-time, 2 percent payment to help offset costs of a new health insurance plan.  Support staff of District 220 will also be able to join the insurance cooperative that teachers and administrators are already a part of.  

Next school year, organization members will receive a raise of at least 2 percent of base salary. The following year, support staff will receive a guaranteed minimum base salary increase of 1.5 percent. 

Penny Kazmier, a Board of Education member, says both groups worked well together to finalize the contract. 

"I feel the BSEO worked well with the board and both groups were willing to compromise on many issues," she said. "I also feel the BSEO recognizes the challenging financial time the district is facing."