Please know that the district’s bargaining team has negotiated in good faith since the bargaining process began in April. We did not want to see any disruption, for any reason, of educational services to our students. After 12 negotiation sessions, the district determined that sufficient progress was not being made and an impasse was declared. Fortunately, the Public Employees Relations Association immediately responded to our request for assistance and a state mediator began facilitating the process and has now met with the teams almost every day.
Over the past sessions, the district has responded to each proposals initiated by the Kent Education Association. So far, the teams have reached 16 tentative agreements regarding proposals initiated by the Kent Education Association. The KEA has not agreed to any of the District’s proposals to date and the District has dropped most of its proposals in trying to expedite an agreement.
We understand the nature of your message and your concerns. I can assure you that we have been making every effort to negotiate a reasonable contract given the resources we have to work with. We are also being extremely sensitive to everyone that this is affecting as we have an obligation to do so.
We will continue with our commitment to keep everyone posted and we encourage you to visit the KSD website (www.kent.k12.wa.us) for additional information and for ongoing updates as we work towards resolution. You may also submit additional questions at Facts@kent.k12.wa.us, or call our information line at 253-373-7466.
Chris Davies, KSD Board
Renton
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