NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / June 30, 2025 / The Federation of Catholic Teachers (FCT) proudly announces the successful negotiation of the first-ever Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for approximately 800 Teachers' Aides and Assistants working in elementary schools across the Archdiocese of New York. This groundbreaking contract brings essential improvements to wages, job security, benefits, and leave for these dedicated school employees, who play a crucial role in supporting both students and educators every day.

Photo Courtesy: Federation of Catholic Teachers

The new agreement solidifies the vital role of aides and assistants within the school community and reaffirms FCT's commitment to fair labor practices and worker protections within the education sector.

Key Contract Highlights

Job Security & Grievance Rights

The contract introduces a formal grievance process to address unjust discipline or violations of the contract. Annual employment agreements will now replace the previous informal letters of intent. Job protection for employees affected by school downsizing or closures will be ensured through a structured rehiring process. Additionally, clear protocols for performance evaluations and improvements have been established.

Workplace Protections & Fair Pay

Teachers' aides and assistants will now receive guaranteed, duty-free lunch breaks, along with compensation for attending school functions outside of their regular working hours. The contract also ensures fair pay when aides are asked to cover lead teacher responsibilities or substitute in other classrooms.

Paid & Protected Leave

The contract guarantees paid sick leave, as well as paid leave for child-related illness, occupational injuries, and bereavement. Furthermore, job-protected leave will be available for maternity, adoption, and family medical emergencies.

Access to Benefits

Aides and assistants working 30 or more hours per week will now have access to health insurance. They will also be able to participate in the Archdiocese's 403(b) retirement plan and pension plan. In addition, employees will benefit from up to $500 per year in tuition assistance for their children attending ACS schools.

Compensation Increases & Bonuses

The agreement includes a 2% wage increase, effective September 1, 2025, resulting in an estimated $400+ annual raise for many aides and assistants. Additionally, full-time employees will receive a one-time ratification bonus of $200, while part-time employees will receive $100.

Total Estimated Value: Over the contract's term, the agreement will provide more than $5 million in new salary and benefits.

A Significant Milestone in Representation

This agreement marks the first time teachers' aides and assistants in the Archdiocese have secured formal labor protections and benefits on such a scale. These achievements were made possible without the collection of dues, showcasing FCT's unwavering commitment to these essential school employees. A ratification vote will take place in the coming weeks, conducted by an independent election agency. Voting instructions will be sent by mail, email, and text.

"This contract brings much-needed recognition and protections to the teachers' aides and assistants who are vital to our schools," said Teresa Clarke, Vice President of the FCT.

About the Federation of Catholic Teachers (FCT):

The Federation of Catholic Teachers (FCT) represents educators, aides, and assistants across schools in the Archdiocese of New York. FCT advocates for fair labor practices, quality education, and workplace protections for all education professionals. Through collective bargaining, FCT continues to ensure that its members are supported and protected in their roles within the educational system.

Country: United States
Media Contact: Leanne Cole, President of the FCT
Company: Federation of Catholic Teachers
Email: Lcole@fct153.org
Phone number: (718) 370-0081
Website: fct153.org

SOURCE: Federation of Catholic Teachers