HSE School Board approves 2026-2027 teacher contract

Submitted by HSE Schools

The Hamilton Southeastern Board of School Trustees approved the 2026-27 teacher contract with the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association (HSEA) on Wednesday, Nov. 4, marking the end of a collaborative collective bargaining process.

Kegley

“Our teachers do incredible things for students every day, and finding ways to recognize their dedication is important to us,” Superintendent Dr. Matt Kegley said. “We’re grateful for the partnership with HSEA and the shared commitment to supporting our educators while remaining responsible with district resources.”

“Hamilton Southeastern Education Association is grateful to our membership for voting to approve the contract with 97 percent voting ‘yes,’” HSEA Bargaining Co-Chairs Craig Frawley and Brie Toste said. “The bargaining team worked tirelessly to represent all 1,249 bargaining unit members to present them with a contract that honors their experience, education, and professionalism. In a time when cost of living and insurance rates are rising, the contract provides teachers and their families with monetary and professional benefits that rival surrounding districts.”

Under the approved contract, eligible teachers will receive a total base salary increase of $1,828. To combat rising health insurance costs, the district contribution to insurance increased nearly $2.5 million, providing a critical investment into the full compensation package for teachers. The agreement also includes a $500 increase for new teachers hired at the beginning of the 2026-27 school year. Starting salaries for teachers hired after ratification will increase by an additional $500.

Additional compensation through supplemental payment approvals include a $4,000 base salary payment for teachers who attain a master’s degree and a $500 base salary payment for teachers hired between Nov. 7, 2025, and the end of the 2025-26 school year who are otherwise ineligible for the primary salary increase.

Looking ahead, the district will present salary increase recommendations for classified staff and administrators at the Board’s Nov. 11 meeting.

The full agreement will be available at hseschools.org/board/contracts.