Providence Teachers To Vote On Contract

The teachers' union votes this evening on the latest contract proposal from the Providence School Department. Union leaders, who have voiced concerns about the offer, have not yet decided whether to recommend ratification.

Members of the Providence Teachers Union executive board scheduled a 5p.m. meeting to decide what recommendation to make. A meeting of the entire membership was scheduled for 7pm.

?We have made recommendations in the past that the membership have voted down. So the membership definitely has a mind and we will listen to it,? said Union President Phil DeCecco.

The proposed contract includes a 12.5 %average salary increase over three years. Union leaders they remain concerned about additional work hours and health benefits for teachers.