Votes counted for new teacher's contract

MIAMI SPRINGS, Fla. (WSVN) -- Union officials have counted all the votes for a new proposed contract for teachers.

More than 60 percent approved the $30 million contract, authorizing the first round of raises in three years.

Althea Tate voted to approve the contracts, and she thinks any pay they get will benefit them. "Because of the economic things that are happening in America, I'm happy for whatever we can get," said Tate.

Some teachers feel that the contract will not benefit them in any way. "We are asking for highly trained professional people that are charged with the responsibility of educating our children with their future. How cheap do you want to buy that?" said Dennis Wilson.

The $30 million contract will affect different teachers:

- Veteran teachers can expect to see a raise per year of $1,250 to $11,000.

- Newer teachers will receive a minimum of $40,000 a year.

- Other teachers can expect a raise of $300 a year.

The school board will vote to ratify the new contract on Wednesday.

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