New teachers’ contract focuses on future; HSTA gives governor an ‘A’
Posted on Jul 27, 2017 in Capitol Connection, Featured
Gov. Ige congratulates HSTA president Corey Rosenlee and negotiating team members.
A new four-year contract overwhelmingly ratified by Hawai‘i’s 13,500 public school teachers was signed last month by the governor, the teachers’ union, and Board of Education members in ceremonies at the state Capitol. “I’m excited that this contract positions us to focus on the most important things over the next four years,” said the governor. “As we move forward, I want to ask for your support of our new superintendent. I truly believe that she ‘gets it’ — that real change begins in the classroom.”
Hawaii State Teachers Association President Corey Rosenlee praised the governor for his leadership and involvement in discussions to resolve issues. “I appreciate not only your commitment to the contract but your commitment to education,” he said. Rosenlee said the contract sets the stage for future discussions on closing achievement gaps, class size and helping all students. In closing, Osa Tui, HSTA negotiations chair and McKinley High School registrar, told Governor Ige, “We were shocked at the many late nights you spent working with us. As an ‘education governor,’ we give you an ‘A.’”