Resident criticizes stalled teacher contract; district says mediation sessions are underway

A Shoreham‑Wading River resident used the public‑comment period to criticize the board's handling of negotiations with the teachers’ union and to urge a fair settlement, while district leaders said mediation is in progress and reminded the community that contract provisions remain in effect until a settlement.

"You can't put a deal together…this will cause a divide in the community," Dan McGuire, a resident, told the board, citing other Suffolk County districts that reached agreements in 2025 and saying Riverhead Charter School offered a 3% raise to its employees. McGuire urged the board to return to the bargaining table and warned that pursuing fact‑finding or impasse could cost taxpayers.

Board President (chair) responded that the board values its teachers and affirmed the timeline of negotiations. The board’s update included three key items: negotiations have been ongoing since April 11, 2025; the parties declared impasse in August (allowing appointment of a New York State mediator); the first mediation session occurred on Nov. 18, 2025; and a second mediation session is scheduled for Jan. 14, 2026. The board also told the public that, under state rules noted in the meeting, provisions of the expired contract continue until a settlement is reached.

Superintendent Dr. Poole said the board remains committed to negotiating a fair contract and that an update will be provided at the Jan. 6 meeting. The board did not take formal action on negotiations during the meeting.