Gresham‑Barlow board approves three‑year tentative contract with teachers’ union

The Gresham‑Barlow School District Board of Education voted Dec. 18 to approve a tentative three‑year contract with the Gresham‑Barlow Education Association, covering July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027.

The agreement, which the district presenter said was reached Nov. 18, 2024, had already been recommended for ratification by the East County Bargaining Council and was ratified by GBEA members on Dec. 17. Doctor Freeman, who presented the item to the board, thanked both the union’s bargaining team and district negotiators for what she described as an “open, honest, and collaborative” process.

Board members asked clarifying questions about operational impacts of the pact, including two additional late‑start days for this year: Jan. 6 and Jan. 8 will be late starts for students, with teachers following the usual staff schedule for late‑start days. Doctor Freeman said a communication plan is ready and that district and school offices will post details on the district website and send reminders and phone calls to families once the board’s approval is final.

A motion to approve the tentative agreement was moved during the meeting; the board voted in favor with no recorded opposition. A board member who identified herself as 'Jacqueline' moved to approve the agreement; a second was recorded but not named in the public discussion. The meeting record does not include a roll‑call tally of individual yes/no votes.

The board’s approval authorizes the district to proceed with the ratified contract terms and the scheduled operational adjustments. The district has said written communications explaining the new schedule will go to families and schools the morning after the board’s approval.

The board adjourned shortly after the vote and noted the next regular business meeting is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2025.