Central Falls teachers agree to new contract

PROVIDENCE – The Central Falls Teachers’ Union, a branch of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals, the Central Falls School District, Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee, and the R.I. Department of Education last month reached agreement on a two-year collective-bargaining contract.

The membership of the union ratified the contract Aug, 23.

According to a news release, the centerpiece of the agreement is the creation of District Management Councils, which will lead to “school-based, collaborative” decision-making on matters that include curriculum, professional development, safety and discipline and learning opportunities.

The contract also includes an overhaul of the health care provisions, including a new health care plan with employee contributions of up to 20 percent. The contract also includes “very modest” increases to overall wages over the term of the agreement and it minimizes the increase in structural costs. •