A central point of discussion was the financial strain resulting from the MEA’s demand for a 34% salary increase, which would create a $7.5 million shortfall in the budget. This situation could necessitate a property tax override, a measure historically opposed by local voters. The school committee’s four-year proposal includes increasing the average teacher salary to approximately $100,000 and enhancing paid leave benefits, such as offering 12 days of paid parental leave. However, the union has rejected this proposal twice. The Town Administrator expressed concern that the union’s motives seemed to prioritize the Massachusetts Teachers Association’s collective power over students’ educational needs. Efforts to continue mediation by releasing 15 union negotiators from teaching duties with pay were also declined by the union.

The legal complexities of the strike were also highlighted, with the Department of Labor Relations assigning a mediator after deeming the union’s strike vote illegal. The committee has engaged with the department and responded to several labor complaints filed by the union. Despite these efforts, significant differences remain, particularly in terms of wage negotiations.

The meeting also focused on the potential repercussions of the strike, such as missed school days, which must be made up to meet the state’s mandate of 180 school days per year. Concerns were raised about the impact on student athletes and extracurricular activities, with events and competitions potentially being canceled due to the absence of faculty supervision. The decision to cancel these activities was made by the superintendent, emphasizing safety concerns and the need for trained adult supervision to ensure equity among all students.

Financial discussions extended to the expected certification of around $8 million in free cash from unspent funds in the previous fiscal year. There was consideration of whether this one-time revenue could support educational programs, particularly if the school committee relinquished control of empty school buildings. However, concerns were raised about relying on free cash, as it could lead to a structural deficit in future years. The committee needs to decide whether the unused school buildings are necessary for school purposes and, if not, request a town meeting to discuss transferring control to the town.

Communication with parents regarding the strike and school operations was another topic of concern. The superintendent was tasked with informing parents about school decisions based on ongoing negotiations, with the technology department ensuring timely updates on the school website. Maintaining relationships within the community post-strike was emphasized, with officials expressing confidence that cooperation between the administration, town leaders, and teachers would continue once an agreement is reached.