U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is proud to announce that his administration has reached a wage agreement with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Locals 1825 and 1826, securing well-deserved salary increases for the Territory’s teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff. This agreement marks a significant step forward in valuing and rewarding the hard work and dedication of our educators and support personnel.
As part of the Bryan-Roach Administration’s ongoing commitment to improving the compensation of the Territory’s teachers, the administration has pledged to bring starting teacher salaries to at least $50,000. This wage agreement is the second such agreement between the administration and AFT Locals 1825 and 1826, underscoring a continued dedication to investing in the Virgin Islands’ education system and workforce.
The new wage agreement covers a two-year period, retroactive from September 1, 2023, and concluding on August 31, 2025. As part of this agreement, teachers will receive a 4 percent salary increase in the first year and an additional 3 percent increase in the second year. Notably, the starting salary for teachers with a bachelor’s degree will be raised to $50,974.12 in the first year, and to $52,503.35 in the second year. Paraprofessionals and support staff will also benefit from structured wage increases that reflect their essential roles within the education system.
In addition, the Government of the Virgin Islands and AFT Locals 1825 and 1826 have agreed to enter a wage reopener and negotiate a successor agreement for the period of September 1, 2025, through August 30, 2028, to ensure that fair compensation and professional growth remain priorities as the Territory continues to invest in its educational workforce.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. expressed deep appreciation for the tireless work of the Territory’s educators and support staff, emphasizing the importance of this agreement in recognizing their contributions.
“As we look toward the future of our public education system, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the dedicated teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff who give so much to the students of the Virgin Islands. This wage agreement is not just about salary increases—it is about recognizing the value of those who shape the minds and futures of our young people,” the Governor said. “In a time when rising costs are placing additional financial pressure on hardworking Virgin Islanders, I take particular pride in our administration’s ability to negotiate a fair and timely wage increase that supports our educators. The work of the American Federation of Teachers is critical to the progress of our Territory, and we are committed to ensuring that their contributions are met with the respect and compensation they deserve.”
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