MLSD, union agree to enter mediation
Negotiations between the Moses Lake School District and the Moses Lake Education Association are ongoing as of Wednesday. Negotiations began in June. The union has agreed to partake in a mediation process at the request of the school district. Several protests have been held by MLEA regarding the ongoing contract process.
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MOSES LAKE — The Moses Lake School District has requested mediation to advance ongoing contract negotiations with the Moses Lake Education Association, the union representing non-administrative certificated staff. The MLEA has agreed to partake in the mediation process, which is facilitated by a neutral mediator from the Public Employment Relations Commission.
Mediation serves as a critical step in the collective bargaining process, aiming to help both parties identify common ground and clarify areas of disagreement. Superintendent Carol Lewis expressed optimism regarding the upcoming sessions.
“We appreciate the continued dialogue with MLEA and look forward to the mediation process. Our focus remains on finding a resolution that supports our students and allows our schools to continue providing the best possible learning environment while maintaining a balanced budget,” Lewis said in a statement.
Negotiations between MLSD and MLEA have been ongoing since June.
MLEA was contacted for comment, but did not respond prior to press time.
“We need a contract that does not include any takebacks and supports our students and staff in every building at every level," MLEA President Heather Whittall said at a picket gathering in late October.