Altamont Teacher Contract Talks Stall

The Altamont Education Association is alleging that the Altamont Board of Education is refusing to negotiate a new contract.

Impasse was declared on August 16 after a negotiation meeting ended.  AEA officials contend that the meeting was "abruptly ended" by Board President Jim Holland and Superintendent Jeff Fritchtnitch.  A negotiation session scheduled for August 19 was cancelled.  A statement from the AEA says that session was cancelled by the school board with no explanation.

The last contract between the school district and the teachers association expired August 15.

AEA officials say no meetings are scheduled, but say they're willing to meet to begin negotiations at any time.

Altamont School Superintendent Jeff Fritchtnitch this morning said the Board has decided not to discuss anything in public regarding negotiations, but confirmed that the two sides are at impasse.  Fritchtnitch said both the Board and the Association have submitted their final offers and said the Board is waiting for another opportunity to go back to the bargaining table.