In a recent government meeting, representatives from the Federation of Public Employees presented a case to the board regarding the ongoing negotiations for salary increases for 7,000 employees within the district. The unions emphasized the critical role these employees play in the functioning of schools, asserting that without them, educational institutions would struggle to operate effectively.

Lucia Piva, speaking on behalf of the union, outlined the history of the negotiations, noting that the dispute centers around the reopener for the 2023-2024 school year. The union declared an impasse in December 2023 after the district indicated it would not consider funding any base salary increases. Following this declaration, a neutral special magistrate was appointed to facilitate discussions, leading to three days of hearings where both parties presented their arguments and evidence.

The magistrates ultimately recommended that the board approve base salary increases, aligning their suggestions closely with the union's requests. Piva urged the board to consider these recommendations seriously, highlighting the legal obligation for fairness and impartiality in resolving such disputes. She stressed the importance of the board's decision, which could significantly impact the livelihoods of the employees and, by extension, the quality of education for students in the district.

The meeting concluded with five unresolved issues remaining at impasse, leaving the board with the responsibility to act in the public interest and address the concerns raised by the union.