NEA - National Education Association

01/10/2025 | Press release | Archived content

Fairfax Education Unions and Fairfax County Public Schools Reach Landmark Labor Agreement

Washington - The Fairfax Education Unions (FEU) and the Fairfax County School Board have formally approved a groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement following a ratification vote by the school board last night, marking the first such contract in nearly 50 years. The agreement follows months of negotiations with the Fairfax Education Unions (FEU), which represents 27,000 school employees through its affiliates, the National Education Association, the Virginia Education Association, and the American Federation of Teachers.

"This is a historic win for Fairfax students, educators, and the community," said NEA President Becky Pringle. "The first collectively bargained contract in nearly 50 years will give educators the freedom to stand together, raise their voices, and ensure their students have what they need to be successful. Now, we can prioritize what truly matters-delivering exceptional educational experiences for our students, and empowering educators to excel in doing the jobs they love."

"For decades, educators and school support personnel in Fairfax have worked tirelessly on behalf of their students; what they asked in return was to be treated with dignity and respect, which is what the right to collectively bargain a fair contract is all about," said AFT President Randi Weingarten. "This agreement isn't just about fair compensation, healthcare, safety protections and a voice at work-it's also about honoring that covenant between educators, support staff and their students. It's an investment in the future of our kids and of the whole Fairfax community. Today marks a new chapter that gives educators a surer footing to focus on the work they love: nurturing the minds of tomorrow and preparing kids for career, college and life."

The comprehensive agreement introduces competitive compensation packages, including salary increases and step adjustments. Special education teachers will maintain their eight-hour contract day, while all educators will receive additional planning time. The contract also establishes new workplace safety protocols and initiates a process to explore more cost-effective healthcare options for staff.

"Today marks a transformative moment," said Virginia Education Association President Carol Bauer. "The ripple effects of this agreement will strengthen our schools for generations to come. We've always known that supporting our educators directly enhances student success. This reflects our fundamental mission - we enter education because we're invested in nurturing young minds and building a stronger tomorrow for every student."

"This agreement transforms our education landscape," said Leslie Houston, Fairfax Education Association president. "It demonstrates what we can achieve through collaboration and sets a new standard for educational excellence in our community."

David Walrod, president of the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers, emphasized the agreement's broader implications: "This victory has been 50 years in the making, and will transform education in Fairfax County, because educator working conditions are student learning conditions," We look forward to creating a culture of trust and collaboration between workers and the administration of Fairfax County Public Schools."

The contract's ratification follows June's historic vote, where nearly 97% of instructional staff and over 80% of operational staff supported collective bargaining rights. As the nation's ninth-largest school district, Fairfax County's agreement could influence educational labor relations nationwide.

Through this agreement, educators gain a stronger voice in shaping their work environment while maintaining their focus on student success. The contract balances fair compensation and working conditions with the district's commitment to delivering exceptional educational experiences for all students.

Moving forward, FEU will continue advocating for educational improvements, including reduced class sizes, enhanced safety measures, expanded mental health resources, and increased preparation time for educators. These efforts aim to strengthen Fairfax County's position as a leader in public education.

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The National Education Association is the nation's largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, students preparing to become teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees. Learn more at www.nea.org