New SEIU Contract: Salary Boosts & Bonuses for Support Staff

Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is investing in its essential support staff through a newly ratified two-year contract with SEIU Local 400 PG. This agreement, which covers fiscal years 2025 and 2026, brings salary increases, retention bonuses, and improved working conditions to the dedicated employees who keep schools running smoothly — from custodians and bus drivers to cafeteria workers.

Board Chair Lolita E. Walker celebrated the agreement as a win for both employees and the entire school community. “We’re proud to support our hard-working staff and ensure our schools continue to be well-maintained and fully staffed by professionals committed to serving our students,” she shared.

What Does the Contract Include?

• A 4% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for FY 2025 and 3% for FY 2026.
• Annual step increases for eligible employees.
• Retention bonuses of up to $800 for full-time employees in FY 2025 and FY 2026.
• A 1% pay differential for those at the top step of their grade.

In addition to salary increases and bonuses, the contract focuses on enhancing employee evaluation procedures and creating more defined processes for voluntary and involuntary transfers. Superintendent Millard House II emphasized that PGCPS is committed to providing competitive compensation and development opportunities for all staff. “A competitive salary package and opportunities for growth are key to retaining a high-quality workforce,” said House.

A Collaborative Effort

Despite expected budget reductions, PGCPS and SEIU Local 400 PG worked together to reach a fair and forward-looking agreement. 

SEIU Local 400 PG President Kelvin Pinkey expressed pride in the outcome: “We fought hard to make sure our members were fairly compensated, and this agreement reflects that, even with the budget challenges we faced.”

With an estimated $4.7 million earmarked for FY 2025 and $3.7 million for FY 2026, this agreement marks an important step toward providing competitive wages and benefits for the support staff who play a vital role in the success of PGCPS.

Moving Forward Together

The ratification of this contract reaffirms PGCPS’s commitment to supporting its workforce, and building strong partnership with its labor unions to ensure that all staff members have the support and resources they need to thrive.