The union for Meridian's teachers and a representative from the state’s largest school district meet this afternoon for one last contract negotiation. The talks have gone on for months. Under a law passed last year, districts and teachers must agree to a contract by June 10th.
That day falls on a Sunday, so teachers and administrators have until the end of the business Monday to agree. Meridian Education Association president Luke Franklin says this has been the most difficult and contentious negotiation Meridian has seen in recent memory. He says it’s been hard on his members.
“Educators aren’t the one that want to necessarily stand strong against management. We believe in a collaborative effort,” Franklin explains.
If the district and union don’t reach an agreement by Monday, the district’s last best offer becomes the new contract. Instead of making that offer Thursday as expected, the district asked for one more meeting.
A representative from the Meridian School District did not respond to requests for an interview.