Special School Board Meeting/Public Hearing — Union's Recommendation for Settling the Disputed Impasse

AI Summary

The Collier County Education Association (CCEA) formally recommends the School Board adopt its last impasse proposal for teacher salary increases instead of the Special Magistrate's recommendation. CCEA's proposal includes $3,200 to base salary plus step and bonus increases ($1,320–$1,580), and performance salary increases with increments up to $3,080 for highly effective teachers, with all teachers advancing one step annually beginning July 1, 2026. CCEA argues the district's growing fund balance, debt-free status, and upcoming referendum provide sufficient capacity to fund meaningful wage increases addressing cost-of-living struggles in Florida's most expensive county.