NFT 'Deeply Disappointed' by Thursday Negotiations

Both the Neshaminy teachers' union and school board reported no significant progress was made during last night's negotiations.

Below is the statement by the Neshaminy School Board after negotiations ended:

Tom Jennings, the NFT chief negotiator, was not present for the second straight meeting.  Both sides met face to face for approximately  20 minutes before adjourning to separate rooms. The NFT presented their new proposal which was identical to their November 1, 2011 proposal which includes 80% retro pay, retirement perks/incentives, and a healthcare contribution rate equal to 8% of the current premium.  

Disappointed by the absence of any changes in their latest offer, Board President Ritchie Webb asked the NFT, via the mediator, to consider the recently settled Souderton Teacher's contract in its entirety.  Webb noted that Souderton is an excellent district which consistently ranks among the top scores in the state.  The NFT did not indicate if they would consider Mr. Webb's request, however they did ask for a copy of the Souderton Contract.

The Board Negotiation Team requested four additional negotiation dates in the month of August. After some discussion, the specific dates offered by the Board were August 8, 15, 29 and 30.  This is in addition to the four meeting dates already scheduled for July (July 10, 18, 26, 30).

The NFT will respond as to the offered dates at the next bargaining session on July 10, 2012.

The Neshaminy Federation of Teachers released the following statement:

The Board moved backwards. Last week the parties reached agreement on 11 previously disputed contractual provisions and reached agreement in principle on a 12th provision. The District requested clarifying language from the Federation regarding that 12th item.

Unfortunately, after the Federation provided further explanation during tonight's session on that last item, the District reneged on its prior agreement on the other 11 items and took the position of all or nothing. The Federation is deeply disappointed that the District has chosen to walk away from the first significant progress the parties have made in years. The District’s conduct is clearly in bad faith and the Federation plans to take appropriate legal action.