Neshaminy Teachers Voice Their Willingness To Discuss All Issues - Including Healthcare Plan

LANGHORNE, Pa., Nov. 19, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- In a show of good-faith commitment to the bargaining process, leaders of the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers said today they are ready to negotiate on the terms of the school district's healthcare plan when talks resume on Dec. 2.

"Adequate, affordable health insurance coverage is one of the most important elements of any contract for our members and their families," said Louise Boyd, president of the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers. "We look forward to serious discussions of this issue with the district's negotiating team. And we are willing to consider any proposal that is fair and equitable in the context of an overall contract package."

Teachers have taken several steps this week in an effort to find common ground with the school district. On Monday, they ended a work-to-contract action and resumed performing extra duties, including extracurricular activities, special events and college recommendations. Also this week, the teachers' federation proposed a meeting with district administrators to discuss the school system's educational priorities.

Teachers and other certified personnel in the schools believe that clearly defined priorities could help move their contract talks forward. "Until everyone understands what the school board's priorities for the system are, it is very difficult for teachers to negotiate changes in healthcare benefits because we need to know how that would fit into a complete contract," Boyd said.

"Teachers want an agreement," she added, "and we are doing whatever we can to demonstrate that to the school district and the wider community. We are hopeful that once we meet across the bargaining table with the school district's negotiating team we will make progress together."

Neshaminy teachers have been working under a contract that expired in July 2008.

SOURCE The Neshaminy Federation of Teachers