New Lenox D122 Support Staff To Rally Amid Ongoing Contract Talks
NEW LENOX, IL — As months of contract talks continue in New Lenox District 122, support staff are set to rally Tuesday ahead of the Board of Education's meeting.
The newly formed union council for the New Lenox Professional Support Staff Council (IFT Local 604) is bargaining their first contract with the district, and seeking an agreement that reflects their hard work and loyal service to New Lenox students, the Illinois Federation of Teachers said in a release.
Support staff filed to unionize in May 2024 . Bargaining efforts began in August; at the crux of negotiations is a proposed increase to staff's insurance premiums, the federation said. A small raise offered combined with the higher premiums would ultimately mean a pay cut, the staff union contends.
"We have had six sessions with the district, and the response so far has been very disappointing," said Rachel Tuley, president of the staff union"Our union is made up of dedicated support staff who are happy to serve our students. We love our jobs, and our students. But the small raise the Board is offering, combined with an increase in what we pay for insurance, is not acceptable. We don't think it's fair, and we hope this rally will show the board that the community is on our side."
New Lenox District 122 Superintendent Dr. Lori Motsch said administration continues to work with the union council to reach a satisfactory and fiscally responsible contract.
"We deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work of our support staff," Motsch said in an email statement to Patch. "Like many school districts nationwide, we face significant challenges in providing the level of compensation they truly deserve. Our commitment remains steadfast in seeking a fair settlement for the NLPSSC membership while upholding the Board's fiscal responsibilities to our community."
The New Lenox Support Staff Council and supporters will gather outside New Lenox School District 122 Central Office, 102 S. Cedar Road, at 5:40 p.m. Tuesday, to rally before the meeting.
