By Joani Gillam
Executive News Editor
Due to recent events, Costa students are concerned with unresolved contract negotiations between the Manhattan Beach Unified Teachers Association and the Manhattan Beach Unified School District going into the summer.
MBUTA and MBUSD have met six times to negotiate a new contract, with the current contract set to expire on June 30.
“There could be negative effects if the teachers don’t reach a compromise,” sophomore Lia Sepanek said. “I’m worried teachers may cut back on their willingness to participate in school activities if they’re unhappy.”
MBUSD’s May 21 proposal suggests no salary raise for three years and limited benefits in exchange for a 2% bonus.
“The outrage is that there is no money allocated for raises or teacher retention,” MBUTA Mira Costa Site Representative Shawn Chen said.
Students are concerned that unresolved negotiations will affect their futures.
“I heard teachers may not be writing letters of recommendation,” junior Taylor Pool said. “I realize it’s the teachers’ time, but letters are vital for students.”
MBUSD can only release limited information on the negotiation sessions with MBUTA.
“All I can say is in the last session, the district provided proposals on multiple items in the contract,” Board President Ellen Rosenberg said.
Principal Dr. Ben Dale hopes for limited conflict between MBUTA and MBUSD this summer.
“My goal is peaceful negotiations,” Dale said. “I want teachers to enjoy working here.”
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