GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids Public Schools teachers are preparing to start the school year next week without a new contract.
The Grand Rapids Education Association’s contract expired June 30, and negotiations with the district remain unresolved. Union leaders are seeking yearly raises instead of every three years and pay that matches the Kent County average. GRPS teachers currently earn about $60,000 annually — roughly $11,000 less than the county average, according to state data.
Teachers union advocates for higher pay at GRPS board meeting
The district says it has proposed a $4 million investment in salaries for the 2025–26 school year, which would raise average pay about 4.5%. Superintendent Leadriane Roby called the plan “a historic investment in our educators” and said it aims to attract and retain staff.
District officials say talks are complicated by uncertain funding, including delayed federal money and a state budget that has yet to be finalized.
Michigan schools prepare for fall amid state education budget fight
The GREA previously urged members, families and community members to attend Monday night’s school board meeting at the Franklin Campus to press for an agreement. Educators also packed a July meeting to advocate for higher pay…