The Moses Lake Education Association (MLEA) announced on the evening of December 1, 2023, that it has reached a tentative agreement with the Moses Lake School District, allowing classes to resume on December 4, 2023. This announcement marks a significant development after a period of negotiations that began in June, following the expiration of a one-year contract.
In a press release, the MLEA expressed relief and excitement about returning to classrooms. “Moses Lake EA members are happy to be heading back to their classrooms and work sites and to be reunited with their students instead of walking a picket line,” the statement read. The tentative agreement is subject to ratification by both the MLEA members and the Moses Lake School Board, although the timeline for the vote has yet to be announced.
The negotiations had faced challenges, particularly concerning salary adjustments, opportunities for teacher training, and preparation time. Tensions escalated in November, prompting the MLEA to announce plans for a strike if an agreement was not reached by November 30, 2023. Teachers officially went on strike on December 1, which pushed both parties to the negotiating table.
Ryan Shannon, the district’s director of public relations, clarified that the district’s proposal made on November 30 was not a formal offer but intended to foster discussions. “It’s a good faith concept for discussion,” Shannon noted, highlighting the district’s commitment to resolving the conflict.
In her remarks, MLEA President Heather Whittall thanked the community for its support throughout the negotiations. “We appreciate everyone’s fortitude and patience as our bargaining teams worked to get a tentative agreement,” she stated, emphasizing the collaborative effort involved.
As the school district and the teachers’ union prepare to finalize the agreement, the return of students to classrooms marks a positive step forward for the Moses Lake community. Both parties remain focused on solidifying the terms of the contract to ensure a productive and supportive educational environment for teachers and students alike.
