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HUBER HEIGHTS — School is back in session today following the ratification of a contract agreement by Huber Heights teachers.

The Huber Heights Education Association, representing teachers and support staff, met about 3 p.m. Thursday to review the agreement reached by union and school board negotiators about 2 a.m. Thursday.

With 470 members present at strike headquarters on Poe Avenue, a majority voted to accept the agreement and end their seven-day strike.

"It was worth it," said Robin Burneka, a special education teacher at Rushmore Elementary. "We got some things that will help us provide quality education for years to come."

Exactly what teachers got — other than general mentions of a three-year contract, limits on class sizes, a better zero-tolerance for violence policy and more time for paperwork — is still not verified. HHEA spokeswoman Debra Owens said that during the 14-hour mediation in Columbus, it was agreed not to release contract details until both sides ratified it.

"The board has 14 days to ratify," Superintendent William Kirby said. "The soonest we can get everybody together is Thursday."

Everyone seemed jubilant about the end of the strike.

"I can't wait to get back," Burneka said. "I don't ever want to carry a picket again."

Not all are as joyful about the terms.

"I'm not happy the leadership of the HHEA led our teachers out on strike," board member Carl Fisher said.

"The deal was more expensive than I feel the community can afford. I'm afraid it will put future funding in jeopardy."

Fifth-grade teacher Wendy Beck said she believes people will soon see what the struggle was about. "We were out for things that are good for kids, good for test scores and good for an excellent rating," she said. "We need smaller classes and a safe environment. It was worth it for those things."