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Community speakers press board for fair teacher contract; board reports executive session on negotiations
Summary
Dozens of community members and union representatives addressed the board during public comment urging a timely, competitive contract for teachers; the board reported an executive‑session negotiation update and pledged continued talks ahead of the Oct. 23 meeting.
The board heard extensive public comment on Oct. 9 focused on ongoing collective bargaining between the district and the teachers' association. Speakers included the HTEA representative and numerous parents, students and community members who urged the board to reach a timely, competitive agreement.
Adam Nancarrow, speaking on behalf of the Haverford Township Education Association (HTEA), thanked the community for support and urged continued focus in negotiations. "When our teachers see yard signs, hear words of encouragement, and know that this community values their work, that matters," he said. Nancarrow said negotiations had seen "real substantial conversations" but asked both sides to maintain momentum to reach a fair contract.
Multiple residents and parents described classroom and student needs and urged the board to prioritize teacher compensation to retain experienced staff. Ryan Schantz, who identified himself as a resident and CFA charterholder, presented a financial view, saying district reserves have grown in recent years and arguing the district has the means to offer competitive pay. Several parents testified to teachers' out‑of‑class work, safety training, and roles supporting students with disabilities and mental‑health needs. An eighth‑grade student, Adele Singston, recounted specific teachers who have shaped her education and asked the board to secure contracts that keep those educators in the district.
A few commenters asked the district to correct public materials. Jonathan Howe urged removal of a district posting that had accused the teachers association of spreading misleading information about the board's salary proposal; Howe said the association's math was demonstrable and requested the notice be taken down from the district website.
The board reported it met in executive session before the work session to receive an update from counsel "related to the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement" among other legal and personnel matters. Board President Dr. King thanked the community for comments and said the board remains committed to working with the association toward a feasible agreement.
Ending: The board noted that negotiations and public engagement would continue and that the next regular meeting is scheduled for Oct. 23, when several items, including proposed contract actions, are expected to appear on the agenda.
