News

A three-member arbitration panel has awarded pay raises to approximately 850 educational officers of Bargaining Unit 6.

The following is a summary of the decision:

• The award is for a four-year duration: July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2017
• Effective July 1, 2013: 4.5 percent pay increase
• Effective July 1, 2014: 4.5 percent pay increase
• Effective July 1, 2015: 4.5 percent pay increase
• Effective July 1, 2016: 4.5 percent pay increase

In addition, the Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund (EUTF) health insurance premiums, which by law cannot be determined by an arbitration panel, was settled between the union and employer to mirror other HGEA bargaining unit agreements with 60 percent/40 percent employer/employee split retroactive to January 1, 2014.

The arbitration hearing took place during the following dates: Oct. 21–24, 2013,
Feb. 3–4, 2014, and March 17–20, 2014. The arbitration panel consisted of Irene Pu‘uohau, union representative; Annette Anderson, employer representative; and Richard N. Block, neutral arbitrator and chair of the arbitration panel.

“This arbitration decision provided an opportunity for both parties to present the facts of the situation in an objective way. Our educational officers, who have expanded duties, have a tremendous responsibility and often dedicate additional time and hours because of their deep commitment to our schools and children’s education,” said HGEA Executive Director Randy Perreira. “As Mr. Block stated in his decision, ‘… this award is justified given the greater range of responsibilities of the members of BU 06.’

“I would like to commend our educational officers for their leadership and dedication every day in our public schools and for being an integral part in helping to move our education system forward for the future of Hawaii’s students, families and communities.”