UNO teachers have okayed their first union contract that "includes fair salaries that will promote teacher recruitment and retention, increased time for preparation and collaboration, and a meaningful voice with which to advocate for their students and participate in decisions that impact their schools and their profession," according to an announcement by the Illinois Federation of Teachers and American Federation of Teachers.

“By joining together as a union UNO teachers and school staff were able to secure a first contract with more tools to better do their jobs, greater input so they can better advocate for their students and their profession, and solid economic gains that recognize the work they do." AFT President Randi Weingarten said in the announcement. "This is a contract that management and labor worked very hard to craft. It's premised on what UNO --its teachers and staff and its management need to do together to transform their schools and ensure their students succeed, and it respects the experience and expertise of UNO educators. The negotiation process, combined with the strong ratification votes by the UNO Board and our educators are helping change the climate between teachers and charter operators."

More than 500 educators and school staff will be covered by the contract at UNO's 16 educational institutions. The teachers and staff are represented by the Chicago Alliance of Charter Teachers and Staff (Chicago ACTS).

"What I am most excited about is that this contract will provide teachers more of a voice in our schools," said Robyn Vester, a teacher at Pilsen's Bartolome de Las Casas school. "We needed more of a say in instructional decisions for our students. I have been teaching first grade for a while, so I am excited to have my opinion count more.”