Teacher talks ‘constructive,’ but no deal yet

Although Evanston/Skokie District 65 schoolteachers have been meeting with the administration since March on a new four-year contract, the talks have been described as “constructive,” but inconclusive.

In a “Dear Local Media” letter Thursday from the district’s communications director, Pat Markham, following an inquiry from Evanston Now, the district official said “we are having constructive discussions about some of the very challenging issues faced in these difficult economic times.”

Markham added that both sides have agreed to use the assistance of a mediator, described as “an impartial third party who can help guide the negotiations process to resolution on issues presented.”

District Educators’ Council President Jean Luft was unable to be reached for comment on the negotiations, but she noted in an earlier conversation with Evanston Now that both parties could agree to extend the current contract if they should fail to reach agreement before teachers return to work in August in preparation for the start of school on September 4.

Teachers at the high school, District 202, have already agreed to a new four-year contract.

Top: Teacher union backers have been posting yard signs around town this week.