By: Richard L. Smith
After months of negotiations and a backdrop of significant budget cuts, the East Orange Education Association (EOEA) has ratified a new five-year contract with the East Orange Board of Education.
RLS Media learned about the vote, held (Today) Thursday, May 15, 2025, resulted in 473 members voting in favor and 86 against, finalizing an agreement that extends from September 1, 2022, through August 31, 2027 according to the contract obtained by RLS Media.
A Hard-Fought Agreement
The ratified contract outlines a structured salary increase plan:
- 2022–2023: 2.0% raise without step movement; retroactive pay expected by June 30, 2025.
- 2023–2024: 2.25% raise without step movement; retroactive pay anticipated by July 15, 2025.
- 2024–2025: 2.75% raise including step movement; retroactive pay due by September 1, 2025.
- 2025–2026 and 2026–2027: Each year includes a 4.0% raise with two step movements, effective September 1 of the respective year.
Additional provisions include enhanced dental benefits, the establishment of lactation rooms upon request, and updates to leave policies to reflect inclusive language and modern workplace needs.
Context of Financial Strain
This contract ratification comes after a tumultuous period for the East Orange School District.
In October 2024, the district announced the elimination of 93 staff positions due to a $25 million budget deficit, leading to widespread concern among parents, students, and educators.
The layoffs affected various roles, includ
ing social workers and special education aides, prompting fears about the quality of education and support services .
The financial challenges were attributed to years of fiscal mismanagement, as noted by both district officials and community members.
Superintendent Dr. Christopher Irving acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that without the budget cuts, the district would have struggled to meet payroll obligations .
Moving Forward
The ratification of this contract represents a significant step toward stability for the East Orange School District.
It addresses long-standing concerns of educators who had been working without a contract since 2022 and aims to restore morale and trust within the school community.
While the agreement provides a framework for improved compensation and working conditions, the district continues to face financial hurdles.
Both the EOEA and the Board of Education express a commitment to collaborative efforts to ensure fiscal responsibility and the delivery of quality education to students.
As the district implements the new contract terms, stakeholders remain hopeful that this agreement will mark the beginning of a more transparent and financially stable era for East Orange schools.