SEATTLE - An agreement has been reached between the Snoqualmie Valley School District and its teachers union.

According to a spokeswoman for the Snoqualmie Education Association t eachers ratified the agreement by a vote of 264-47.

Highlights of the bargain include gains in compensation and health benefits.

"It's a package that meets members' needs phased in over a three-year period," Snoqualmie Education Association President Art Galloway said. "It's fair. It's appropriate and it's financially responsible."

The current contract was set to expire on Aug. 31 and the teachers had authorized a strike.

School will start Sept. 3 as planned. 

The Snoqualmie Valley School Board still needs to approve the agreement. The board is scheduled to meet Thursday.