Teachers and parents press board to resolve contract and boost retention

Several public commenters used the meeting’s public-comment period to press the board to finalize a teacher contract and provide supports to retain staff.

Matt Little, a former local official and parent, told the board: “Let’s get a contract done so that everybody behind me can focus on what’s in front of them and not be looking over their shoulder.” He asked for stability and additional supports for students learning English and others who need extra help.

Sydney Moore, a fourth-year teacher at McGuire Middle School, described long contract fights and said the district is again without a contract in January. "I am in my fifth year teaching with a master's degree, and I cannot afford a one-bedroom apartment in my own town with my salary,” she said, arguing the district is losing teachers to neighboring districts that pay more.

The board did not take immediate action on contract terms during the meeting; negotiation details and any proposals will remain part of collective bargaining and administrative follow-up. Board members noted competing budget pressures—including curriculum purchases and potential insurance cost increases—when discussing district finances later in the meeting.