The Chelsea School Committee meeting on December 18, 2024, focused on significant updates regarding staff contracts and benefits aimed at improving retention and support for educators in Chelsea Public Schools. The committee outlined a comprehensive financial package that includes substantial wage increases and enhanced leave policies.

Key highlights from the meeting included a proposed 13% wage increase for educators over the contract duration from July 2024 to June 2027. This increase will be structured as a 3% raise in the first year, followed by 5% raises in the subsequent two years. Additionally, paraprofessionals will receive a differential adjustment to their base salary, with amounts set at $3,500 for the current year, $2,000 for the next, and $1,500 for the following year. The clerical unit will also see improvements, including two additional pay steps and a $1,000 differential in base pay for two consecutive years.

The committee emphasized its commitment to supporting families by aligning its parental leave policies with the Massachusetts Parental Leave Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Starting July 1, 2025, the district will offer six fully paid weeks of maternity and paternity leave, with three weeks available for current leaves upon ratification. This initiative positions Chelsea as a leader in providing family benefits compared to other districts in the state.

Further enhancements include an increase in sick leave days for family care, expanding from 15 to an additional 45 days, and modifications to the sick bank policy to allow staff to care for immediate family members. The committee also introduced a $1,000 annual stipend for staff who achieve bilingual or biliterate certification, alongside increased longevity bonuses and incentives for Chelsea High School graduates returning to teach.

In summary, the Chelsea School Committee's decisions reflect a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and rewarding environment for educators, which they believe will ultimately benefit students. The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions, highlighting the committee's openness to community engagement as they move forward with these initiatives.