DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — Members of the Durham school board and Durham Association of Educators gathered Tuesday evening to tout the adoption of a meet and confer policy, the first in North Carolina.

“When educators and staff know that their voices are not just welcomed, but expected, a shift begins,” said Superintendent Dr. Anthony Lewis.

“People have just been so excited,” said Mika Twietmeyer, President of DAE.

Twietmeyer and other DAE members have worked since last February to try to get this opportunity.

“It’s been an idea, it’s been a vision, it’s been something that people didn’t think would ever happen,” she said.

The board made its final approval on a policy last week, voting 4-3 to slightly amend the policy that first passed during an April work session.

Under the policy, groups that represent 11% or more of DPS staff will have the opportunity to be recognized by the district and be part of committee meetings.

“To talk about, this is the equipment I need to be successful in my role, these are the resources that I need to be successful in my role, quite frankly, this is the pay that I deserve. So we will continue to have those conversations alongside our workers,” Lewis explained.

Members of DAE are looking ahead to being involved in future budget discussions.

“This is going to be huge for making an impact in the future and being a part of these tough decisions,” said Twietmeyer.

Several DAE members spoke out at the Durham County Commissioners meeting about the upcoming budget, while uncertainty about funding for DPS continues.

The school district’s proposed $222 million budget includes a request for a nearly $16 million increase from the county compared to last year.

The county manager, meanwhile, proposed a budget with a $10.3 million increase instead.

“We’re going to have to give up something if we don’t get anymore funding from the county, but we’re poised to continue those conversations,” said Lewis.

The Board of Commissioners is set to vote on the budget on June 9.