Competitive salaries has been a long time goal of the Frederick County Teachers Association, and one school system administrator. "Competitive salaries are important. They enable us to find and keep the best teachers. And any teacher who leaves us and goes to go another jurisdiction is a lost investment has made in supporting, and training and providing professional development to that teacher," says Dr. Theresa Alban, Superintendent of Frederick County Public Schools.

Back in June, the Board of Education received a report which says that Frederick County ranks 22nd out of the 24 school districts in Maryland when it come to starting teacher salaries.  It ranks 16th for teachers beginning at the master's salary scale, and 9th in the state when it comes to teachers with a master's degree and 30 more additional credits.

"I am encouraged by the recent agreement between the Board of Education and the Frederick County Teachers Association that will begin to take a step in that direction in working to make Frederick County competitive," Dr. Alban says.

The agreement was approved by the FCTA rank and file with 81% in favor, and 19% opposed. It provides a step pay increase for teachers beginning on Oct. 12st, 2012, and one furlough day.

But Dr. Alban says salaries aren't the only reason teachers stay with a school system. "It's the community that they feel, and the sense of support and encouragement," she says.

The contract approved by FCTA members must still be ratified by the Board of Education.