Representative Mary Lightbody (D-Westerville) released the following statement after the Columbus Education Association (CEA) voted on Sunday to ratify a contract with Columbus City Schools, ending the contract dispute and getting students back in the classroom.

“I am thrilled that the students are going to be prioritized and that the teachers will have the resources they need in order to meet the needs of their students. I wish everyone a successful school year. Thank you to those who came to the table to reach this fair agreement,” said Rep. Lightbody.

Highlights of the contract include:

·  All student learning areas will be climate controlled by the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, including heating, proper ventilation, and air conditioning;

·  New limit on filling full-time education related service positions, including psychologists and nurses, with out-of-state workers employed by for profit companies;

· Paid parental leave program for teachers; and

·  Salary increases to attract and retain quality educators.

Original source can be found here.