Letter to the Community 10.20.26

As a representative of the Board of Education and the Community, I am proud of the work and progress made regarding contracts for our Oriole staff. We have reached agreements with most of our employees, and feel that we are close to agreement with the CEA. 

We have been in negotiations with the CEA since last January, and the District has presented 6 global proposals following our collaborative negotiation sessions. The vast majority of the article proposals are mutually agreed upon, including significant areas of compensation. The District has accepted the CEA’s most recent financial offer, which includes:

•  Largest pay raise in several years

•  Increase in the hourly rate for additional work

•  Increased sick day pay outs

•  Additional schedule B opportunities

•  Board supported increases in employee benefits across the district 

At this time, we have only a few remaining areas of language to resolve, primarily related to arbitration. While the Board is offering expanded options for appeal, grievance, and mediation, we believe there should be reasonable limitations on the final step of arbitration due to the time and expense associated with arbitration fees and legal representation for both the MEA and the District. 

Because we are so close to a complete contract, we began the mediation process in September. The use of a third party mediator is not a sign of negative relations. It is simply another step to help resolve these last remaining points and reach a settled contract more quickly, as we want to have our staff benefit from the financial aspects of the proposal.

5-Year Average Staff Retention Rate

Link:  https://www.mischooldata.org/michigans-education-staff/

We are committed to supporting  our staff and students. We understand that retaining talented staff is essential to our continued success. CPS has a five year average staff retention rate of 81% compared with 77% statewide, and our retention rate is above several of our neighboring districts (MiSchoolData.org). 

Thank you for your patience and support as we take the necessary steps for a positive resolution for our community. 

Go Orioles! Oriole Pride!

Mr. Mark Byers- Charlotte Board of Education President

Dear CPS Families and Staff,

As we move into early spring, the combination of melting snow and warming temperatures allows us to continue important roof repair work across the district. Below is an update on recent repairs, upcoming work, and progress made over the past year.

To ensure long-lasting results, repairs must be completed during sufficiently dry weather conditions. We appreciate your patience as we balance urgency with quality.Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work to maintain safe and functional facilities for our students and staff. Please report any concerns to your building office so they can be addressed promptly.

Go Orioles! Oriole Pride!

Mandy Stewart- CPS Superintendent

CPS Families,

While my hope is that today's weather is just a short cold spell, it seems like a good time to communicate about Snow Day Decision-Making. There are always mixed feelings regarding snow days, from the students that are excited to have a free vacation day, to the parents that have to scramble for child care.

Snow days are not called on a whim, as there are a lot of moving parts and questions that are related to that decision. Annually, I try to put out information regarding Snow Day decisions, so that our community understands how the decision is made and what has to be considered regarding our snow days. Included are the frequently asked questions!

Charlotte Community,

Thank you for your continued support of Charlotte Public Schools! I am excited to share the great news that our Millage Renewal has passed!

We are deeply grateful to our CPS community for recognizing our needs and standing behind our district. I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to our students, families, staff, community members, and local leaders whose hard work and dedication helped others understand the importance of this renewal. Your efforts made all the difference!

This is truly a team effort, and we are fortunate to have such strong commitment and expertise supporting Charlotte Public Schools.

Thank you again for your continued trust and engagement. As we move forward, we look forward to your input and collaboration. I am so proud to be part of Charlotte Public Schools—thank you for your support of our children, our schools, and our community!

Go Orioles! Oriole Pride!

Dr. Mandy Stewart- CPS Superintendent

Charlotte Public Schools has an operating millage renewal proposal on the November 4, 2025 ballot. The renewal applies only to non-homestead property (such as businesses, rental properties, and second homes) and will not increase taxes for homeowners. This funding provides approximately $3.7 million annually to support instruction, special education, student services, and transportation. Dr. Mandy Stewart, Superintendent, encourages a YES vote to maintain critical funding that directly supports students. Read more below for the ballot language, FAQ, and additional details.