Contract talks continue in Dixon, many issues still remain
By: Marty Kasper
Updated: March 8, 2013
DIXON - Contract talks have been ongoing for nearly a year, and since last Thursday teachers have been out of the classroom and walking the picket line.
Late into the Friday night the two sides continued to talk, trying to work out a deal that would get students back to class on Monday.
But teacher salary increases, insurance contributions, and retirement wording can't seem to be agreed on.
The
"It's been tough on our community," said District 107 superintendent Michael Juenger. "It's been tough on our students."
Contract talks resumed Friday at one in the afternoon, but after hours of negotiating the two sides are still stuck.
"A disagreement on how much of a raise can be provided to the teachers," said Juenger.
As well as a disagreement on retirement plans and on how much the school board wants teachers to contribute to their insurance plans.
"That the teachers help a little bit more with some insurance," said Juenger.
This week Governor Pat Quinn said districts will get less
money from the state. In
"There are a lot of those unknowns out there right now," said Juenger. "So, what you're trying to do is just prepare for as much of those as you can."
And that uncertainty is what's holding the district to push for more contributions.
"We just don't know how long this is going to last," said Juenger.
But Juenger hasn't lost hope that a deal can be reached soon.
"As long as there is a desire to continue to negotiate," said Juenger. "I believe there is still some hope."
The teachers union declined to comment on the process Friday, saying they were busy working on a deal.
As of late Friday, no new negotiating dates have been set. However, the two sides might meet this Sunday.
Superintendent Juenger will be hosting a meeting with parents about the negotiations on Sunday at the Dixon VFW from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
