After Fact Finding and Mediation Still No Deal for Lucia Mar Teachers

The Lucia Mar Teachers Association and the District participated in Fact Finding and mediation on Friday, February 27. Both parties worked into the evening but were unable to reach an agreement. The neutral Fact-finding Panel Chairperson called the parties back for an additional day of mediation on Wednesday, March 25.

Amy Jacobs, Marketing and communications coordinator for the district said, we remain committed to participate in good faith in this process to try to come to an agreement.

The groups are meeting behind closed doors.

Kyla Huckerby, a teacher at Lopez High School said, “We do what we can do, but we’re fed up.”

Teachers claim since the state has increased the district’s budget the district should share the wealth.

Donna Kandel, president of the Lucia Mar Teachers Association, said

“We’ve been waiting for this day (fact finding day) it’s a big day for us.”

Kandel said, “No matter what the short term outcome is, what we’ve built in this union is remarkable.

Kath Goss, a teacher at Arroyo Grande High School, said ” I have never seen anything like this (rally) before in the 35 years I’ve been here.”

Huckerby said, “We’re looking for solidarity, it shows Lucia Mar teachers care , but it’s time. We’ve had enough.”

Teachers are saying they don’t want to strike but may have no choice.

Mediation will continue next month.