Elmhurst D205 Workers 'Clean Up' In New Union Contract

ELMHURST, IL – The union for Elmhurst School District 205's custodians said last week it was able to "clean up" with its members' new contract.

In a statement, SEIU Local 73 said it won benefits, including fixed insurance premium contributions, longevity pay and retirement stipends.

For wages, custodians are receiving a $4.25-an-hour increase over four years, the union said.

The union also said it won increased life insurance coverage and an extra personal day.

“This contract's great because it opens the door for more opportunities," Mayela Ruiz, a custodian and union negotiator, said in the statement. "We're in a better position now to keep improving in the future."

At Tuesday's school board meeting, members unanimously approved the agreement, with the board's president, Athena Arvanitis, absent.

"The agreement aims to attract and retain high-quality, purpose-driven employees while remaining fiscally responsible," Joseph Schumacher, assistant superintendent of human resources, told the board.

But he and other officials did not reveal the agreement's details. The board has yet to post the agreement online.

The contract starts next Wednesday and lasts through June 2030.

"This was a very collaborative process," board member Beth Hosler said.

On social media. SEIU is using the agreement for recruitment, saying it "cleaned up" and featuring broom symbols.

"This can be your reality in a union, and this is the reality when fighting with SEIU Local 73," the union said.