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The Fairfax County School Board unanimously approved two collective bargaining agreements with the Fairfax Education Unions on Jan. 9, establishing the first such contracts for the school division’s licensed instructional and operational employees.
The agreements, which take effect July 1, 2025, include a 7% market scale adjustment to salary schedules in fiscal year 2026. Employees will receive a 3% market scale adjustment and a step increase in both fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
An additional step will also be added to the top of every salary scale in fiscal years 2027 and 2028.
Beyond compensation, the contracts guarantee teachers a minimum 30-minute planning block and continue extended-day contracts for special education teachers. Employees will receive three bereavement days that are separate from sick leave.
The agreements also create a Health Care Advisory Committee to consider options for making health plans more affordable.
School Board Chair and Providence District Representative Karl Frisch said the contracts recognize educators’ resilience and sacrifices while advancing a more equitable future. He also linked educators’ working conditions to student success, arguing that supported and respected employees create stronger learning environments.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid said the agreements give staff a voice in decisions affecting the school division’s mission and strengthen collaborative, student-centered decision-making.