Cheney Education Association approves tentative agreement with school district

CHENEY, Wash. — After two full days of mediation, the Cheney Education Association (CEA) and the Cheney School District reached a tentative agreement late on Aug. 23.

CEA members gathered at Cheney High School on Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. for a ratification meeting, where they reviewed the agreement and voted to approve the new contract with 94% support.

According to Cheney bargainers, they are relieved to start the school year on schedule with students, avoiding a strike. They negotiated for competitive pay to attract and retain top teachers and ensure consistency across Cheney public schools.

“This has been a stressful few weeks,” said Cheney EA President Meridth Lemelin. “We are glad we could come together with the school district to prioritize the needs of Cheney teachers and students.”

The tentative agreement now goes to the Cheney school board who will also have to approve the new contract for the agreement to be final.

Educators will start the school year on Tuesday.

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