"I'm definitely happy that we will have this year and the next two years to go uninterrupted from contract negotiations," said Ron Newell, CAT president and spokesman.

"Hopefully, we will all learn from our mistakes and make sure that this doesn't happen again."

In order to be official, Newell said the contract must be ratified by the majority of the board.

The board is scheduled to meet Thursday.

"From what we understand, in speaking with the board attorney (Barney Mundorf), there are enough votes on the board to ratify the contract. But we know it's not a done deal until they approve it."

Superintendent Robert Isom said he was elated to learn the teachers' association had given a thumbs-up to the contract.

"That's great," he said. "I'm sure the board will do likewise and approve the contract."

Isom said a new contract allows both the teachers and administration to get back to the business of educating the students. "That's what we're all here for, and now we can do our work without any added distractions."

Isom said the length of the contract will also give both negotiating teams a cooling off period before resuming talks in 2005.

"It leaves time for feelings to heal. Maybe, we can once again become a harmonious unit with one vision -- educating our children."

The new four-year teachers contract will become official next week if the board grants formal approval. It includes:

A 4.25 percent raise. (To be paid this school year).

Step increment (2 percent) raises (2002-2003 school year).

Some additional 2 percent or 4 percent raises. (Also to be paid this school year).

Step increment raises and perhaps a rebate from the district should the board change to a new insurance carrier that charges a lesser premium for health insurance than the present carrier (2003-2004 school year).

Step increment raises plus 3 percent additional or 5 percent total raises (2004-2005 school year).