- December 13, 2025
Volusia County Schools and Volusia United Educators Support have reached a bargaining agreement.
According to a press release from the school district, the agreement includes a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for support staff; one-time, non-reoccurring 1% stipend to all members of the bargaining unit; a leave increment change from one hour to 30 minutes; and two days of paid bereavement leave. The agreement, which will need to be approved by the School Board, also stipulates that leave may be transferred to another employee within the bargaining unit.
VCS and VUE will reconvene the joint labor management committee to meet monthly throughout the 2025-2026 school year.
“This agreement is more than a contract," Superintendent Carmen Balgobin said in the press release. "It’s a reflection of our shared values and commitment to the dedicated professionals who support our schools every day. By investing in our support staff, we are investing in the strength, stability, and success of every classroom in Volusia County. From increased pay to expanded leave options, this agreement demonstrates our continued focus on valuing and empowering our employees.”
VUE President Elizabeth Albert announced the tentative agreement on Monday night in a video on Facebook. In speaking about the stipend, Albert said VUE agreed to it "so that everyone could get something."
"Our goal is to always do the most good for the most folks and that is what we were able to accomplish tonight," Albert said.
VUE had been advocating for 2% bonus, which the district rejected.
The agreement will be ratified during the week of Dec. 1, as of now. After ratification, the agreement will be presented to the School Board on Dec. 9, at which time payment information will be distributed, VCS stated.
