Despite their small size and the School Committee's attempts to delay, divide, and diminish this first contract, these new UE members held fast to an agreement that doesn't get everything they wanted but makes significant gains in some key areas and brings them closer to the average wage and benefit levels for school custodial and maintenance workers in southeastern Massachusetts. Call-in pay is doubled to 2 hours at the applicable rate.
Vacations improve dramatically for some workers.
Those with 2-5 years get an additional week. ORR workers will qualify for four weeks vacation after 10 years of service, instead of the previous 15 years. The contract establishes one year of recall rights in the event of layoffs. The union will receive prior notice of any suspension or discharge. The school will provide shirts, as well as beepers and walkie talkies, to improve the communication and safety of the employees, especially those on second and third shifts.