Woodburn school board declares impasse in negotiations with teachers’ association

The Woodburn School Board voted 5-0 to declare an impasse in contract negotiations with the Woodburn Education Association and authorized staff to prepare a final offer, the board announced.

A board representative read a statement to the Woodburn school community saying the board "formally voted to declare an impasse in negotiations with the Woodburn Education Association" and that the decision "was not made lightly." The statement said the board "remains committed to reaching an agreement that supports our educators and serves our students." The statement added: "We remain hopeful that progress can be made at the next mediation on June 30th." (Speaker identified in the transcript by role cues as the presiding board officer.)

The motion to declare an impasse and authorize preparation of a final offer was moved and seconded; the board recorded a 5-to-0 vote in favor. The motion directs district staff to proceed with preparing a final offer to present in the bargaining process. The transcript does not list individual member names associated with the vote in the public record provided.

The statement acknowledged that the decision may be "disappointing and concerning for many members of our school community," affirmed appreciation for educators, staff and administrators, and emphasized the district’s commitment to "providing a high-quality education for every Woodburn student while being responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to our district." The statement also said the board appreciates "the patience, understanding, and support of our community as we continue this process."

No additional motions or votes were recorded in the provided transcript. The board noted a mediation session on June 30 as the next scheduled step in bargaining. The meeting adjourned at 9:23 p.m.