May 27, 2026 – Decatur Public Schools District 61 and the Decatur Education Association have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement that will remain in effect through 2029.
District officials announced the agreement following approval during the Decatur Board of Education meeting Tuesday night. The contract covers the years 2026 through 2029 and follows months of negotiations between district administrators and union leadership.
Monica Wilks served as bargaining chair for the district, while Michelle Cline represented the Decatur Education Association during negotiations.
According to the district, the agreement includes average salary increases of 4.78% in the first year, 4.49% in the second year, and 4.36% in the third year. The contract also adds up to 15 days of paid emergency leave for qualifying emergency situations, pending superintendent approval.
District Human Resources Director Monica Wilks said the agreement reflects the district’s commitment to supporting employees while continuing to focus on student success.
DEA President Samuel Mills said the agreement includes improvements for educators and represents a collaborative effort between both sides.
District leaders described the bargaining process as productive and collaborative and thanked members of both negotiating teams for their work throughout discussions.
The newly ratified agreement will guide the partnership between Decatur Public Schools and the Decatur Education Association through June 2029.
