UPDATE: Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Teachers in the Wichita school district will receive a one-percent raise next year if the union approves the new contract.

Superintendent John Allison said the raise was part of the latest contract negotiations between U.S.D. 259 and the teachers union. The two sides reached a tentative agreement just days after meeting with a federal mediator.

The one-year contract includes a one-percent increase to the salary schedule, with adjustments in salary based on experience, or education. Teacher's salaries have been frozen for four years.

Union leaders said they do not agree with the district's proposals, but reached a tentative agreement despite the differences.

"They will never make up what they've lost," said Randy Mousley, UTW President.

The contract also asks that teachers adhere to a professional dress code.

"They don't like it when someone doesn't dress professionally," said Lynn Rogers, U.S.D. 259 president. "So it gives teachers the ability to police each other."

Teachers will vote on the tentative agreement during the first week of classes. Students return to class Aug. 15.