CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Champaign Unit 4 School District and the Champaign Federation of Teachers have finalized a new three-year contract, intended to enhance the district’s ability to attract and retain quality educators. The deal, approved unanimously by the Board of Education, delivers substantial salary increases, recognition of prior teaching experience, and enhanced benefits.

Under the agreement, teachers will see pay increases ranging from 15% to 17%, based on their roles. The district will now honor years of experience from previous school systems when placing teachers on its salary scale. A major benefit addition is two weeks of paid parental leave, a rare offering among Illinois school districts outside of Chicago.

Another key change eliminates early‑dismissal Mondays, starting next academic year, ensuring a standard full week of instructional time. The contract is retroactive to July 1 and runs through June of 2028, providing immediate and lasting impact for staff.

Superintendent and union representatives described the process as notably collaborative, hastened compared to past negotiations.