South-Western City Schools in Ohio Approves New Contracts with Teachers and Superintendent
Columbus, Ohio – In a significant move for public education in Central Ohio, South-Western City Schools—one of the largest school districts in the Columbus metro area has finalized new contracts for its educators and top leadership.
On July 10, members of the South-Western Education Association (SWEA) ratified a three-year agreement that includes annual salary increases and key benefits improvements. Later that evening, the district’s Board of Education unanimously approved the contract, marking a major step forward in labor relations and educational investment.
Key Contract Highlights:
- Salary Increases:
- Year 1: 3.3% raise
- Years 2 & 3: 3% raise each year
- Starting Salary:
- New base for teachers with a bachelor’s degree is now $50,290, up from $46,000.
- Top Salary:
- Educators with a master’s degree, additional credits, and 24 years of service can now earn nearly $114,000.
Beyond pay, the contract includes:
- Class-size caps
- Parental leave improvements, allowing up to 12 weeks of sick leave for birthing parents
- Lower premiums for family health coverage
- Recognition of the workload associated with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
The contract negotiations required a mediator for the first time since 2013, reflecting the tense nature of discussions. SWEA represents over 1,600 professionals, including teachers, psychologists, and speech therapists.
Emmalee Harding, the union’s spokesperson, praised the agreement as a win for both staff and students, highlighting the community’s role in preserving the district’s educational values.
Superintendent and Administrator Contracts Approved
The board also approved a new five-year contract for Superintendent Randy Banks, who began his tenure on August 1, 2024. His salary of $265,000 will increase annually in line with the teachers’ contract, reaching $273,745 in the first year.
Administrators represented by the South-Western Administrators’ Association (SWAA) will also receive similar annual increases, though specific salary ranges were not immediately disclosed.
Board President Chris Boso described the agreement as “fair and necessary” to retain top teaching talent. Meanwhile, board meetings leading up to the decision were marked by public demonstrations and community involvement, with hundreds of union supporters attending a key meeting on June 9.
Negotiations are ongoing with the union representing non-instructional staff, according to district spokesperson Meredith Ackerman.
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