District officials say ‘at this time, we fully anticipate that school will begin as scheduled’

Ken Vance, editor
Clark County Today

On Thursday (Aug. 21), the La Center Education Association (LCEA) notified the La Center School District (LCSD) that its members voted to authorize a strike and provided their last and final offer. 

Later Thursday, La Center School District Superintendent Peter Rosenkranz and members of the district’s Board of Directors (Craig Whited, Eric Lindberg, Amanda Miller, Dorri Oldham, and Samuel Glackler) provided an update to the La Center community. 

“Together, we have made significant progress at the bargaining table this year and tentatively agreed to all proposals except their salary increases,’’ the letter read. “The District and our teachers’ association (LCEA) are actively working together toward a new contract agreement. We deeply value our teachers and all staff who serve students every day. At the same time, we know our responsibility is to keep the district financially stable so we can continue supporting strong schools now and in the future. Both of these priorities — valuing staff and protecting stability — can be true at the same time.

“School district budgets across Washington, including here in Clark County, are under significant strain,’’ the letter continued. “Despite the challenges happening around us, our focus is on ensuring La Center remains steady and well-positioned to serve students, families, and staff for years to come.

“We are working together to achieve an agreement that provides recognition for staff today while safeguarding the strength of our schools tomorrow. Thank you for your support as we continue open and respectful dialogue with our teachers. Together, we can keep La Center schools strong and stable for our community. Your trust and partnership make this possible.’’

The district also provided a Q & A offering additional information about the negotiations. In that document, families were informed that, “at this time, we fully anticipate that school will begin as scheduled. Should circumstances change, we will keep parents informed promptly. In the meantime, it is wise to have a contingency plan in place in the event teachers decide to strike.’’