THE ACT Government have struck an agreement with the AEU that will see significant pay rises, targeted resources into disadvantaged schools and principals given more autonomy.

It is expect that ACT teachers will vote on the agreement as soon as February 2012.

“This agreement will see some ACT teachers receive very significant pay rises, while also providing the opportunity for our best teachers to stay in the classroom working in disadvantaged schools and helping our most needy students,” Deputy Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

“The Government will now pay some of our best classroom teachers $100,000 – the fulfilment of a fundamental ACT Labor election commitment.”

Mr Barr said the agreement provided principals with more autonomy and the ability to choose their own staff to meet their school community’s needs and ensure their students are achieving the best educational outcomes.

“Principals now have the power to create high performing teaching teams, where one teacher’s weaknesses are complemented by another’s teacher’s strengths.”

For more information visit www.det.act.gov.au.