TABCO Calls on County to Fully Fund Negotiated Wage Agreement

The teachers association of Baltimore County is urging county officials to provide full funding for its recently negotiated three-year wage agreement. The agreement includes a five percent increase starting July 1st; however, the current proposed county budget falls significantly short, offering only a 1.5 percent raise.

According to the union, securing the full funding is essential to reducing high turnover rates among educators and maintaining stability in classrooms for students. Cindy Sexton, president of the teachers' union, emphasized the importance of proper funding: "As you know, year two of that agreement is in jeopardy. I know the school system and our county government are working to fund the agreement, but at this moment, we don't have that funding."

She also highlighted the critical role educators play in student success: "Countless research studies show that educators matter more to student achievement than any other aspect of schooling." The union is now requesting that the county identify additional funds to fulfill the terms of the agreement.

The county council is scheduled to vote on the budget on May 22nd, after which official negotiations are expected to commence. The union continues to advocate for the full implementation of the agreed-upon wage increases to support educators and ensure a stable learning environment for students.