The District 202 Board of Education approved a three-year deal with the Association of Plainfield Teachers union that reflects the district’s commitment to providing a competitive employment package to recruit and retain top talent.
The District 202 Board of Education approved the new contract with APT during a special meeting on March 11, 2025. APT members voted overwhelmingly to ratify the new pact on March 6.
APT represents more than 2,000 teachers and other staff, including social workers and school psychologists.
The three-year plan includes differentiated raises that ensure all employees have a wage that makes District 202 competitive to help retain current and recruit future employees. The plan was based on a benchmarking study that includes 18 school districts and made a concerted effort to be competitive in the marketplace.
The Board of Education approved a significant market adjustment in the contract’s first year and ties future raises to the consumer price index.
“This contract marks a significant milestone for District 202. By prioritizing fair compensation and sustainable financial practices, we are strategically positioned to meet the ever-evolving needs of our students and community,’ said District 202 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Glenn Wood.
District 202 has demonstrated improved financial stability, with prudent budgeting and strategic decision-making. This has allowed for increased investment in employee compensation while maintaining a healthy financial position.
“I thank the Association of Plainfield Teachers leadership for its dedication, hard work and good-faith negotiations,” said Board of Education President Rod Westfall. “We believe this agreement is fair to everyone and helps to move us forward as a district.”
“The contract was a win for both sides,” said Steve Jepsen, APT President. He also thanked the APT negotiation team, the board of education, and district administration for their spirit of cooperation and collaboration.
“Other districts should take note of the great working relationship we have with each other and see that it does not have to be adversarial for each party to get what they need,” Jepsen said.
The Board of Education and the Plainfield Association of Support Staff (PASS) approved a three-year deal in May 2024.