Contract Stalemate 'Disrespecting' Teachers

The Sparta School District’s inability to reach an accord with its Education Association after a year of negotiating is a sign of disrespect, according to the union’s president.

Sparta Education Association president Susan Sawey came before the Sparta Board of Education Monday night, verbally lambasting the district for its inability to settle on terms both sides could live with.

Dozens of faculty members stood while Sawey gave her speech, all wearing shirts emblazoned with the “It takes a little more…” phrase. The tagline is a play on what teachers in the district tell their students, “It takes a little more to be a Spartan.”

“Recognition shows that you acknowledge the hard work and dedication necessary for successful schools,” Sawey said. “Recognition equals respect. I have to be honest with you; we are not feeling that same level of respect right now. After too many years of a salary freeze and increased contributions to pension and benefits, we are losing ground fast.

“A whole school year without contract just added insult to injury,” Sawey continued.

With her colleagues still standing, Sawey received a rousing applause.

Contracts for the districts 350 teachers, paraprofessionals and secretaries have yet to be settled. The next mediation session is scheduled for July 1.

Both sides last agreed on a contract prior to the 2010-11 school year when the union agreed to a single-year pay freeze.