Teachers in Naperville District 203 have a new four-year contract after the school board unanimously approved an agreement Wednesday that ensures stability in the school day structure and provides annual base salary increases of between 2% and 3.85%.
The decision follows several tense weeks of negotiations. Earlier in August, members of the Naperville Unit Education Association (NUEA), which represents more than 1,500 educators, had voted to strike after beginning the school year without a contract. A tentative deal reached on August 22, however, prevented disruption to classes and allowed negotiations to conclude with an agreement supported by both the union and the board.
Stability in School Day and Salaries
One of the main points of discussion was whether the district would alter its current school day structure. Both sides confirmed that the structure will remain unchanged, preserving consistency for students, families, and teachers.
“Together with the community, we ensured that our students will continue to benefit from the school day structure that has long supported learning,” said NUEA President Ross Berkley. “We are glad our new contract is ratified so we can put this behind us and focus on moving forward with our students.”
The contract also addresses teacher pay. Salaries will rise by 3.85% in the first year, 2.5% in the second year, and at least 2% in years three and four, with the final two years tied to the consumer price index. According to district officials, the deal will result in a compounded salary increase of nearly 20% over the contract’s duration.
Additional Benefits for Educators
Beyond base salary adjustments, the contract includes enhancements for teachers performing extra duties. Hourly rates for work such as professional learning, curriculum development, and summer teaching will rise by $3 per hour. Internal substitution pay will increase from $29 to $48 per hour, recognizing the extra responsibilities teachers take on when covering for absent colleagues.
The Naperville District also added new sick day provisions. Licensed staff who reach 21 years of service will see their annual sick days rise from 15 to 18, providing greater flexibility for long-serving educators.
“These changes make our wages more competitive and recognize the efforts of educators who dedicate countless hours to supporting student success,” Berkley said.
Focus Back on Students
Naperville District leaders emphasized that the new contract allows everyone to refocus on student learning and classroom priorities.
“With this contract approved, our focus is squarely back on our mission: providing an outstanding education for every student,” said Superintendent Dan Bridges. “This agreement establishes a solid foundation for our educators to continue their essential work.”
Several board members echoed that sentiment, thanking both negotiation teams for their persistence and stressing the importance of unity.
“What makes this Naperville District great is really everybody working together at the end of the day in the best interest of the students,” said board member Marc Willensky.
Looking Ahead
For students and families, the new contract ensures stability in their school schedules and reaffirms the district’s commitment to supporting teachers. By addressing compensation, workload, and benefits, the agreement aims to give educators the tools and confidence to focus on instruction.
As the new school year moves forward, the Naperville District hopes to channel the energy from the resolution into strengthening classrooms, developing innovative programs, and continuing to build strong connections between teachers, students, and the community.
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