(ABC 6 News) – On Monday, Jan. 12, Stewartville teachers approved the district’s contracts, securing higher longevity pay and insurance contributions for educators.

According to SUE Co-President Charlie Aitken, educators will see a 4% pay increase this year and 3% next year, a slight decrease from the start of mediations.

However, longevity pay will go up for the first time in 40 years, according to Aitken.

Family insurance contributions will increase by $300 a month by the district and $35 a month for single plans.

Last week, Aitken shared the following statement.

“Stewartville United Educators are satisfied with this settlement. The Stewartville Board of Education will be voting on the proposed contract Monday evening.  We thank the community and local businesses for all of the support through this process. We also want to thank the Stewartville School Board for their hard work in negotiating this contract, and we look forward to them approving the contract at their upcoming meeting. We are now excited to return our full focus on teaching our children of Stewartville! “

Stewartville United Educators Co-President Charlie Aitken