Public comment at the Duarte Unified board meeting focused on teacher pay, benefits and the need for better communication between the district and bargaining groups.

Andrea Grimm, introduced as a Duarte High School parent and the teachers’ union president, thanked the board for its service and urged officials to ‘‘act on what the community wants’’ by settling teacher compensation and ensuring educators have health, dental and vision coverage. ‘‘We want teachers who feel respected because that is what they'll give our kids,’’ Grimm said, recounting a coach who stepped in to support 45 swimmers without pay because of a commitment to students.

Steve Hernandez, the second public commenter, said the district has faced recurring issues on teacher pay since the 1980s and warned that unresolved disputes and rumors ‘‘have kept kids from wanting to go to our schools.’’ Hernandez urged the board to improve communication with the union and community groups, naming Heather Mesger and Tom (surname given as a local leader) as key community figures who should be engaged in dialogue.

Board members acknowledged the comments and several expressed hope for productive negotiations in the coming year. The meeting record shows no immediate bargaining action or vote; speakers urged a quick settlement and more transparent communication.

No formal response or negotiation timeline was recorded during the meeting; the board and superintendent thanked speakers and noted the topic will remain a priority for the governance team.