(KNZA)--The Hiawatha USD 415 School Board has approved a new contract with teachers for the 2026-27 school year.

The agreement with the Hiawatha District Education Association was unanimously approved during the board's November 11th meeting.

It includes a 2 percent increase in base salary, bringing the starting salary for teachers to $47,200. The agreement is retroactive to August 1st.

The board also approved raises for non-certified staff.

In other business, the board discussed the district's facilities master plan with representatives from Lighthouse Construction and HTK Architects, including a possible bond issue for a new elementary school and other facility improvements.

Board members said they want more information about the proposed improvements, building size and estimated costs before moving forward. Board member Ian Schuetz also stressed the importance of providing voters with clear information about what they would be approving.

The board is expected to consider a bond resolution next month. If approved, the measure would go before voters in March.

Also at the meeting, cast members from the high school's upcoming production of "Clue" gave a preview of the play, which will be performed Friday and Saturday evenings in the High School auditorium.

The board also recognized high school students Pauly Rockey and Hannah Simmer for their accomplishments in state cross country and golf competitions.