ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA

At midnight, August 31, 2006, the contract which covers the lay teachers of the twenty high schools of the Archdiocese will expire. The negotiating team for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has been bargaining in good faith with the hope of reaching a contract agreement before the start of the school year. School opens on Wednesday, September 6, 2006. The Archdiocese understands and appreciates that teachers, parents, and students want the school year to begin on time. We are committed to working toward a just and fair settlement for all our constituents.

Consistent with past practices the Archdiocese is negotiating a three-year contract. The Archdiocese will continue its efforts to do the best it can for its teachers while considering declining enrollments and rising operational costs. The Archdiocese must balance fair wages and benefits for teachers, whom we respect as professional educators, while considering the impact of higher tuition costs on parents.

Negotiating sessions are regularly scheduled and will continue until we have a contract. Resolving the differences between both parties remains a priority and the Archdiocese is ready and willing to talk day and night in order to resolve this contract for the good of our teachers, students and their families.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747