The School City of East Chicago Board of Trustees scheduled a special meeting for 6 p.m. on Sept. 16 to consider approval for the administration to enter collective bargaining for the 2025–26 teacher contract.

Ms. Simmons told the board the meeting is necessary to complete approvals before negotiations can begin. “On 09/16, we will have a special meeting here for going for approval for going into teacher negotiation for 25–26 school year,” Ms. Simmons said. She explained the meeting had to be scheduled before Sept. 15 but was moved to Sept. 16 due to scheduling conflicts.

Why it matters: Formal board authorization is typically required to begin contract negotiations with certified staff. Scheduling the special meeting provides an opportunity for the board to approve negotiation parameters in a public session.

What’s next: The special meeting is set for Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. at the Administration Building; trustees noted the meeting will focus on collective bargaining and that the public is invited to attend.