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Board ratifies DEA and DESPA tentative agreements and salary schedules for 2026–27
Summary
Board approved tentative collective‑bargaining agreements and the 2026–27 salary schedules for licensed staff (DEA) and support professionals (DESPA); union leaders reported overwhelming member support during ratification votes.
The board approved tentative agreements and the 2026–27 salary schedules presented by the Durango Education Association (DEA) and the Durango Education Support Professionals Association (DESPA).
DEA negotiators reported an overwhelmingly positive ratification vote among members after several months of bargaining, with one opposed vote reported during the union balloting. "It was a really productive negotiation season," Aaron Meest, the DEA lead negotiator, told the board, thanking district leadership for collaborative work.
The DESPA representatives likewise reported broad member support and asked the board to ratify the negotiated compensation packages and the related salary schedules (including transportation, custodial and facility services schedules, and other ESP categories presented in the agenda packet).
Board motions to ratify the DEA and DESPA tentative agreements were seconded and passed during the meeting. The approved salary schedules and related fiscal documentation will be posted as part of the district's fiscal transparency materials and reflected in payroll implementation plans this summer.
