Frederick County Public Schools announced today that the Board of Education reached tentative agreements with all three employee bargaining units:
Frederick, MD (June 13, 2024) – The Board of Education of Frederick County (Board) has reached a tentative agreement with all three employee bargaining units: the Frederick County Association of School Support Employees (FASSE), the Frederick County Teachers Association (FCTA) and the Frederick County Administrative and Supervisory Association (FCASA). This marks the second year in a row in which negotiations with all three bargaining units have concluded nearly simultaneously.
Each association has obtained ratification by their membership and the new negotiated agreements were signed at the June 12 Board meeting. Language for the three tentative agreements becomes effective July 1, 2024.
Across all three associations, the following applies:
- Salary resource pool equivalent to 4% on average increase.
- 16% increase to medical premiums, includes prescription and vision coverage.
- No increase to dental premiums.
- Limited copayment increase to support needs of plan.
In reaching these agreements, Board President Karen Yoho said, “The Board is very thankful for successfully securing agreements with our three associations. We deeply appreciate the dedication of our staff and the collaborative nature that is the foundation of our partnership, especially with current budgetary restraints. Special thanks to our association partners, lead negotiators, Chief of Staff, and the support from County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, County Council President Brad Young, and all local government members who facilitated our joint efforts. On behalf of the Board of Education, we express our gratitude for this collective achievement for the benefit of FCPS and our community.”
Frederick Association of School Support Employees (FASSE)
Sharon Eburg, FASSE President, shared, “We are delighted to announce the successful conclusion of negotiations and the presentation of a tentative agreement to the FASSE members for ratification. Through collaborative efforts, various issues were brought forward, discussed, and effectively resolved. This agreement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of both bargaining teams.”
Highlights of the agreement include:
The annual allotment of staff development (e.g., training, speakers, programs, etc.) monies for FASSE bargaining unit members will increase from $3,250 to $5,000.
To assist the Board with budget and staff planning, current 10-month probationary employees must provide a resignation notice by May 1st and non-probationary employees no later than July 1st prior to the start of a new school. During the school year, all ten-month, eleven-month, and 12 twelve-month employees must provide a two-week resignation notice.
FASSE will have the option to have a full-time release president each year with FASSE paying the full cost of salary and benefits.
FASSE bargaining unit members may now accumulate a maximum of twelve unused personal days before any personal days in excess of the maximum will be credited to accumulated sick leave. Previously, FAASE employees could accrue a maximum of ten unused personal days.
The Board and FASSE will form an on-going Salary Study Committee to examine pay schedules and pay allocations, which will assist in the recruitment and retention of staff. Committee recommendations will be made to the Board, Superintendent of Schools, and bargaining teams by October 31st of each year.
This contract will remain in effect until June 30, 2026, with yearly openers on salary and insurance benefits and two language proposals submitted by each party.
