PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Teachers in Prince William County have positive news to celebrate after final negotiations between the school district and the local union.
Prince William Education Association (PWEA) represents over 11,000 public school teachers in the county, and they just finalized their negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement for 2024-25. One item on among the agreement that is being heavily recognized is more time off for new parents.
The union, along with Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), announced Thursday that the deal includes 12 weeks of paid parental leave in a new short-term disability leave program with six weeks paid leave for the 'non-birthing parent.' The new agreement also includes more flexibility for staff leave, more support for staff transitioning to different grade levels, and more compensation for staff acting as club leaders.
"We are pleased to have reached an agreement with PWEA on substantial benefits. In addition to our competitive salaries and benefits package, PWCS is excited to offer additional leave and support to our staff, reaffirming our commitment to ensure PWCS is the best place to work for our educators," said Prince William County School Board Chairman At-Large Dr. Babur Lateef.
The milestones achieved include:
- Implementation of six weeks of paid parental leave coupled with short-term disability access for up to 12 weeks, supported by job security measures to instill stability within our classrooms.
- Expansion of bereavement leave provisions to three paid days, giving staff time for grieving and healing.
- Increased pay for club leaders in recognition of their additional responsibilities.
- Heightened support for staff transitioning to teach different grade levels.
- Increased flexibility for staff through converting two days of sick leave to personal leave for a total of five personal days throughout the school year with all leave provided in the beginning of the year.
The newly finalized negotiations does not include an overall wage increase.
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