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Decatur Education Support Professionals Association ratified tentative agreement with DPS61

By Lindsay Romano Jun 25, 2025 | 11:38 AM

June 25, 2025 –  The Decatur Public Schools Board of Education voted to approve a contract with the Decatur Education Support Professionals Association (DESPA) for a new three year contract.

The Director of Human Resources, Monica Wilks, and Michelle Dixson, President of DESPA, released the following joint statement upon reaching the three-year agreement:

“The success of this bargaining process represents a renewed relationship between DESPA and Decatur Public Schools (DPS). We are proud to have achieved a fair and collaborative agreement. This contract embodies our mutual respect and shared commitment to the staff, students, and families of our district. We are thankful for the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by both sides throughout this journey, and we look forward to our continued partnership in nurturing a positive work and learning environment for all.”

Superintendent Dr. Rochelle Clark adds, “This agreement is a testament to the strong partnership between the District and DESPA. “Our support professionals play a vital role in the success of our schools, and we’re proud to recognize their contributions through this new contract. Together, we remain committed to fostering a supportive and thriving educational community.”

The contract includes increased vacation allocations for secretaries, a net wage increase over the next three years and added  bereavement leave to comply with new Federal and State law.

The DESPA union unanimously ratified the new negotiated agreement on June 9, 2025. The contract will be effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028.