By Gene Robbins, Managing Editor
Contract negotiations have failed to produce a new pact for the approximately 1,000-member Hillsborough Education Association.
The Hillsborough Township Board of Education and the Hillsborough Education Association were unable to reach a contract settlement on May 31 after eight meetings of direct negotiations over the last six months, Thomas Kinst, board president, said Monday night.
A three-year contract is ending this month.
“While the parties were successful in resolving a significant number of very important issues, the negotiations stalled over salary increases, stipend amounts, positions with no stipends, longevity and health insurance contributions,” he said.
Impasse was declared and a mediator has been appointed by the Public Employment Relations Commission. The first mediation session has been scheduled for July 14, Mr. Kinst said.
“As this process moves to mediation, the parties are committed to working cooperatively and, with the assistance of the mediator, they are hopeful that they can reach a voluntary settlement before the new school year begins,” Mr. Kinst said.
The HEA represents teaching staff, instructional and other aides, maintenance and custodians, and secretaries for the 7,280-student district.
“What our members are taking home decreases, class size and demands increase,” said Henry Goodhue, HEA president. “We seek a fair contract that is reflective of the excellence of Hillsborough.”
Monday’s meeting agenda noted the receipt of 488 “letters of gratitude for HEA staff from colleagues, parents and students” forwarded to the school district offices by the HEA.
Maria DeLucia, HEA second vice president and a retiring aide at the middle school, spoke during the public portion. She concluded her remarks about staff going the extra mile by saying, “We just can’t give anymore.”
During the public portion of the meeting, nine high school students spoke about their view of teachers’ caring, effort and impact. They talked about teachers staying after class to give extra help, writing college recommendations, volunteering time for activities outside the classroom and, in general, inspiring them for a lifetime, they said. They all called for an agreement to be reached soon.
“Respect them and provide what they deserve,” said one student.
