Teacher Pact Talks Reported Going Well

Both Ann Árbor Education Association (AAEA) and the Board of Education announced today that negotiations I were progressing well, with the development that broke the deadlock being the consideration of two-year contracts. The two teams met 10 hours Monday reviewing contract revisions for a possible second year. Until then negotiations had involved a one-year pact. Both teams stated that they were hopeful for a settlement shortly after school resumes in January. Issues in the talks basically have revolved around pay and class size. After talking to both teams yesterday the f act finder, Prof. Keith Groty of the Michigan Employment Relations Commission, indicated that he would not issue his report until after the negotiating teams met in January. His report was to be released Dec. 29, which was 30 days after the fact finding hearing over the budget. Groty had stated he urged "the best determination of what fair and equitable should mean should be made by the parties" indicating his desire that the two teams settle the contract without outside assistance. Talks are scheduled to resume Jan. 4' between the AAEA and board.