Histadrut, Ministry of Finance, and Local Government Center sign agreement to reform wages and employment conditions of education supporters in local authorities
Today, the Histadrut, the Ministry of Finance, and the Local Government Center have signed a new agreement aimed at reforming the wages and employment conditions of education supporters in local authorities. This agreement is set to significantly change the status of over 55,000 education supporters and bring about a fundamental shift in the perception of the profession.
One of the main points of the agreement is an increase in salary for education supporters. The basic salary will be raised by over 20%, with a full-time position for a beginning employee without seniority now earning between NIS 7,000 to NIS 8,000. The agreement also includes a monthly seniority supplement, promotion and professional development opportunities, as well as a shorter work week.
In addition, the agreement includes incentives for persistence and attendance, as well as kindergarten replacement fees for education supporters who fill in for teachers. The vacation and compensation schedule will also be adjusted, with additional benefits like an annual clothing ration and the opportunity for further education.
The signing of this agreement marks a historic achievement for education supporters in Israel. Histadrut Chairman Arnon Bar-David stated that this agreement has turned the role of kindergarten assistant into that of an education supporter, highlighting their importance in the pedagogical activity.
Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich praised the agreement, stating that good conditions and a quality work environment will improve the children’s environment and ensure optimal education. Chairman of the Local Government Center Haim Bivas called it a historic achievement that will raise the education system in Israel.
The agreement was signed at the Histadrut House by various representatives from the Histadrut, Ministry of Finance, and Local Government Center. Supporters of education from around the country participated in the ceremony.
The agreement signifies a major step towards improving the wages and conditions of education supporters and strengthening the early childhood education system in Israel. This achievement is a result of lengthy negotiations and collaboration between all parties involved.