Hamilton Teachers Crowd into Bargaining Session

More than 50 teachers in the Hamilton School District in Waukesha County crowded into a bargaining session Thursday to show support for a fair contract.

The members carried signs that said, "We Support Our Team," and passed out giant paper quarters bearing the inscription, "If You're at the Max, Here's Your Raise After Tax!"

The Board's current offer of 1.21% per cell would provide only 25 cents per hour after taxes for the most experienced teachers in the district, and proportionately less for others.

As the United Lakewood Educators bargaining team came down the hall and entered the room, they were greeted with applause and words of encouragement from their colleagues.

As Chief Negotiator Phyllis Santacroce and her team settled in at the bargaining table, the ULE members filed into the room, still carrying their signs.

The district's negotiator asked if the teachers were all going to stay. He was reminded that the association never agreed to closed sessions, and that members were free to observe.

Though no settlement was reached, both sides felt progress was made during the session. The district is offering 1.21% on each cell of the salary schedule and the association is seeking 3.5% on each cell. Unresolved language items include prep time, early retirement, tax sheltered annuities, and personal days. The association and district have agreed to seek the services of a mediator.