Page 4 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • July 13, 2011 Wyckoff Education association, school board agree to contract by John Koster The Wyckoff Board of Education and the Wyckoff Education Association have agreed to a three-year contract which includes a raise of 1.5 percent for the K-8 system’s 250 teachers, instructional aides, and secretaries for the next school year, followed by two percent raises for the next two school years. The teachers agreed to an extra 15 minutes a day of teaching time, and the option of evening parent/teacher conferences starting in 2012. The teachers also agreed to work one extra day per year. “We recognize that a weak economy places demands on everyone,” WEA President Kathy Bowers said. “We looked for a reasonable, balanced settlement with the board. “The board fully recognizes the hard work and dedication of all its employees,” said Board of Education President Rob Francin. “Moreover, the board would like to thank all those who support the district in these challenging times. The first year of the contract is, in effect, a pay freeze for the WEA and the other two years represent very modest increases. I believe this is a fair settlement.” Wyckoff Superintendent of Schools Richard Kuder said he was pleased that there was a fair agreement and that the agreement was accomplished prior to September. He said that wrapping up negotiations over the summer would allow everyone to come back in the autumn focused on students and learning. Former New York Yankees pitching ace Andy Pettitte and his wife Laura will be the keynote speakers at a special family event at the Wyckoff Family YMCA at 691 Wyckoff Avenue in Wyckoff on Wednesday, Aug. 31 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The Pettittes will share how their faith provided a solid foundation for their marriage amidst the pressures and trials presented by a career in Major League Baseball in an era of performance enhancing drugs. A Q&A session with selected questions from the audience will follow the presentation. All ticket holders are invited to submit questions by filling out the form found at www.athletesinactionnyc.org by Aug. 28. Tickets are $5 and include an opportunity to receive a special gift from Andy. Additional signed memorabilia will be available for the special auction. No personal memorabilia may be brought into the event. (continued on page 16) Pettittes to speak at Wyckoff YMCA Andy Pettitte