Open letter from Shoreline School Board on contract negotiations

08-28-2007August 28, 2007

Dear Parents and Community Members:

Re: Contract Negotiations

We would like to provide an update regarding negotiations between the District and our two largest unions (SEA & SESPA). At this time, mediators have been requested to facilitate the conversations between our teams in negotiations. We want you to know that we are committed to reaching an acceptable agreement with our teachers and classified staff, while remaining fiscally responsible to the future of the Shoreline school community.

First and foremost, we deeply value our teachers and classified employees who work most directly with our students. Our staff is the soul of our school district. Their dedication to and daily work with students is a significant part of a child’s life.

We recognize that teachers in Washington are under-compensated for the work that they do. While we believe that the fundamental responsibility for increasing this compensation lies with the State, Shoreline is doing the best it can with current resources. Whereas most districts make decisions during contract negotiations whether or not to use their reserves (savings) in order to accommodate unfunded requests and pass-throughs, Shoreline does not have the luxury to do that at this time.

We are trying to negotiate contracts with our employee organizations that will both meet mutual interests where possible and allow the district to make progress towards achieving a state-mandated adequate fund balance (reserves). Only when we are able to restore our fund balance will we have access to use all revenues for our staff and programs.

We also want you to become informed about the proposals that are currently on the table as well as the issues facing our district. We have attached a document that outlines what SEA is requesting and the District’s response.

Essentially, the District has committed to pass-through the cost of living adjustment (COLA) increases in salary compensation and increases in individually-directed time, if SEA and SESPA will help us redirect a portion of the non-salary money committed in the contracts to help pay for the approximately $500,000 increases to our budget not covered by the State.

Our position might be illustrated by the analogy of a family that is experiencing financial problems. During difficult financial times, a family might curtail some of their discretionary activities or reduce their donations to worthwhile organizations in an effort to minimize the long-term impact of the situation. We essentially are trying to do the same thing. Although we believe that many things we have done in the past are good for students and instruction, we cannot afford to do some of them at this time when we are regaining our fiscal stability.

We acknowledge the sacrifices made by every facet of our community during the past two years, including our employee groups. Throughout the difficult budget-balancing process, we have made every effort to prioritize our direct classroom support. We are committed to working together to insure the continued excellence and long-term stability of the district and appreciate your continued support.

Sincerely,
Sue Walker, Superintendent
Mike Jacobs, Board President
Jim Leigh, Board Vice-President
Debi Ehrlichman, Board Member
Dan Mann, Board Member
David Wilson, Board Member