Farmington teachers and parents press board for faster contract settlement as community voices rally
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Summary
Multiple teachers and parents urged the Farmington School Board to settle a long-expired teacher contract, citing morale problems, staffing losses and claims the district fund balance can absorb increases; board members emphasized fiscal constraints and the need to balance total compensation.
Several teachers and community members used the Farmington School Board public-comment period to press for a faster settlement of the district’s expired teacher contract, warning that prolonged negotiations are hurting morale and forcing educators to leave.
Mark Tauci, a technology and media-broadcasting teacher at Farmington High School, told the board he has taught in the district for 27 years and asked for “a fair settlement with our contract,” saying he wants compensation that keeps pace with inflation and shows the district values teachers. Tom Rasmussen, a fifth-grade teacher at Meadowview Elementary and an FEA negotiator, said the district has been “200 days without a contract” and noted the last bargaining cycle took 335 days before a settlement was reached. Rasmussen also raised questions about transparency, asking why some employee contracts are not posted on the district website.
The public comments included personal testimony about classroom dedication and the toll an expired contract takes on staff. Megan Johnson, a 20‑year secondary math teacher, said she is “tired, worn down and frustrated” by the recurring need to fight for compensation and warned the delay is costing the district talented teachers. Brian Cohen, a parent and District 57B state-house candidate, asked the board to return to the bargaining table and reach a contract that is competitive with neighboring districts.
Board members responded during the business portion of the meeting with context about district finances. Member Becky reviewed how teacher pay is driven by a steps-and-lanes salary matrix (years of service and education level), explaining that “roll-up” cost increases from steps and lanes are recurring and estimated by the district to be roughly $1.17 million per year for step increases and about $200,000 per year for lane movements. Board members stressed that total compensation calculations include health‑care costs and other benefits, which affect how much salary increases the district can absorb without exceeding revenues.
Superintendent Jay Berg and the board said they are committed to sustainable compensation and noted statewide funding dynamics that make negotiating difficult: special-education costs and state formula growth rates affect local budgets. Board members encouraged community involvement in state funding conversations while reiterating a desire to reach a fair settlement.
There was no formal board action on the contract at the meeting. Public speakers and union negotiators said a third mediation session is scheduled for Feb. 13. The board adjourned after routine business.
