By Kevin Lavery, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – Contract negotiations are continuing this afternoon (Friday) between the St. Louis Public Schools and the teachers union. Tonight, the two sides will respond to each other's salary and benefits proposals. Benefits have historically been an enticement for teachers to work in city schools but union members say they're concerned about a district proposal to raise out-of-pocket medical insurance costs.
The union's current contract expires at midnight, and president Mary Armstrong says the union will negotiate around the clock if it feels progress is being made, "We can schedule meetings tomorrow, if need be; all day, if need be. Sunday if it falls into Monday, we will meet. We are there trying to make sure that we can do what's in the best interest of the members we represent, and also what's in the best interest of children."
Armstrong says the district is expressing a willingness to work with the union. She adds that interim superintendent William Roberti has attended every negotiating session - the first time a superintendent has done so.