Realistically speaking, they had little choice. Nonethless, the Pulaski Association of Classroom Teachers and the Pulaski Association of Support Staff have agreed to reopen negotiations on portions of the contracts governing the 2012-13 school year in the Pulaski County Special School District. “We look forward to meaningful negotiations that are beneficial to both parties,” PACT President Marty Nix said in a letter to Arkansas Education Director Tom Kimbrell.

The Pulaski County School District is in state receivership. Jerry Guess, appointed to head the district under state control, told the state Board of Education earlier this week that the district was heading for a huge deficit with changes. He plans to reduce staff by 77 and leave currently unfilled positions open, but said he needed to produce $7 million more in cuts to balance the budget.

Advertisement

These could include a reduction in the length of contracts (and thus pay) along with cuts in other benefits.

PACT sent Kimbrell a list of 35 questions on financial and work issues, including a recitation of how much money has been spent on consultants since the state takeover; attorney fees; overtime pay, and more. All would be useful in determining, I’d guess, whether working stiff-level pay cuts are the only viable cost-saving options.

Advertisement

Guess has said he believes an agreement can be worked out, but is prepared to make changes “unilaterally.” The state believes its takeover means it is no longer legally obligated to the contract, but, to date, has shown a willingness to continue to have the unions represent employees.

Here are the documents sent by the unions.

Advertisement

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article In case you were wondering …. Next article Weekend: Nuclear Cowboyz