Anchorage School District and Educators Reach Tentative Contract Agreement

A tentative agreement has been reached between the Anchorage School District (ASD) and the Anchorage Education Association (AEA) for a new contract that will span three years, beginning on July 1, 2023, and concluding on June 30, 2029. The announcement was made in a joint statement issued by the district.

The proposed contract aims to address key issues such as compensation and working conditions for approximately 2,800 educators. According to the statement, the agreement includes a salary increase and an enhanced employer contribution to health benefits. Additionally, it encompasses over 20 articles that will directly improve the working environment for educators within the district.

In a significant move, the contract will also feature a letter of agreement to extend the previous contract, which expired on June 30, 2025, through the end of this year. This extension serves as a transition to the full three-year contract that is expected to take effect on July 1, 2026.

“This contract is historic for Anchorage educators,” stated AEA President Christi Sitz. “Competitive wages and benefits are the best tools we have to keep existing teachers in schools and attract new educators to our community.” She emphasized that both organizations are committed to ensuring students receive the highest quality education from fully staffed schools equipped with necessary resources.

ASD Superintendent Dr. Jharrett Bryantt echoed these sentiments, noting the challenges involved in reaching this agreement during a time of rising costs and budgetary pressures. “Our focus never wavered—our teachers are the heart of this district, and student success begins in their classrooms,” he remarked.

A ratification vote for the agreement is anticipated later in February 2024, following which the Anchorage School Board will review the proposal at a meeting scheduled for early next month. This agreement marks a crucial step in securing a stable and supportive environment for educators, contributing to the overall educational framework in Anchorage.