Clerical workers in Pittsburgh Public Schools last night unanimously voted to ratify a new contract, one of two unions that must approve the deal to avoid a strike.

Members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 2924 voted 176-0 in support of the contract.

Local 297, representing hundreds of cafeteria workers and custodians, votes this morning.

It's a good contract," said Richard Caponi, AFSCME District Council 84 director. "I think the people realized that, and they obviously support it."

"It's great. I'm excited," said school board member Theresa Colaizzi. "We have been working on this long and hard for quite a while. And you don't want a strike, especially with education and children. It's so disruptive."

The contract goes before the school board Tuesday evening.