Teacher warns proposed contract penalty could drive staff away; board refers language to HR committee

A high‑school business‑education teacher criticized proposed changes to the district’s teacher‑contract language and persuaded the board to delay action and seek additional review.

Michelle Zerky, who identified herself as a business education teacher and YA co‑op coordinator, told trustees the proposed liquidated‑damages penalty was “disappointing and discouraging” and could amount to a $7,500 punishment that risks driving staff away. She urged a graduated penalty schedule like other Wisconsin districts use and provided a packet of alternative language and comparative district policies for consideration. Zerky said staff have already lost paid prep time and that a large single penalty combined with lost insurance could be especially harmful to employees.

Board member Dr. Bardau moved to postpone action on the teacher‑contract language until the April 20 regular meeting so administration and teachers could meet. The board then adopted an amendment to refer the packet and proposed language to the HR Finance Committee for discussion at its April 13 meeting at 4:30 p.m.; the amendment carried and became the main motion. Board members said the referral was intended to allow administration and staff to clarify the reasons behind proposed numeric changes and to consider alternative structures for liquidated damages.

What’s next: The HR Finance Committee will consider the proposed contract language and the packet provided by Zerky on April 13. The full board will revisit the item at its April 20 meeting if changes are recommended.