The school district recognizes the importance of maintaining ongoing positive relations with employees and consulting with employees when making decisions regarding salary and other conditions of employment. If employees request to do so, the district will bargain collectively with representatives of employees, in accordance with law.

The Board and its representatives will engage in respectful negotiations with employee representatives. It is essential that negotiations not disrupt school operations or negatively impact the educational environment. The ultimate goal of all negotiations is to secure the services necessary to deliver excellent education to the district's students in a safe environment based on a sound, realistic budget.

Furthermore, the Board understands that collectively bargained agreements are legally binding and is committed to carrying out the provisions of each agreement. The legal obligation to collectively bargain does not compel either the district or employee representatives to agree to a proposal or to make a concession. Board policy and district procedures will govern in the absence of a binding agreement, when the agreement does not address an issue, or when an agreement expires and a new agreement regarding the issue is not reached.