Local

Contract negotiations underway with teachers as first day of school draws near for Seattle students

SEATTLE — Seattle Public Schools is working to negotiate a new contract with the Seattle Education Association, which represents teachers and other staff as the first day of school is set to begin soon.

Nearly 50,000 students are expected to start classes on Sept. 7 for grades 1-12 and Sept. 12 for preschool and kindergarten students.

RELATED: Bus driver shortage forces temporary cancellation of some routes for Seattle Public Schools students

The current contract that the district has with teachers will expire on Aug. 31, but both sides have been working throughout the summer to come up with a deal as there have been positive signs of collegiality and collaboration, according to the district.

The district states in part that “Neither side has spoken of a stalemate or any potential disruptions.”

Pay raises and student-teacher ratios are major issues that are being discussed.

0