There’s still no contract for teachers in the Holgate School district, as the issue surfaced at the first meeting of the new year Wednesday night. A couple of teachers addressed the board, seeking to have negotiations continue. But the board reported in December they were making their final offer, which included pay raises for nearly every teacher. In fact the board released a statement saying the latest offer would increase 36 of the 38 teachers’ salaries from 3.2 to 8.5% in each of the next three years, when you include base increases, step increases, and column advancement. The other two teachers would increase by about 2.3% for the year. There were a number of bargaining sessions held last year; but the board is holding firm that they have made their final offer, which they hope the Holgate Teachers Association will vote on.
In action by the Holgate Board, Greg Thomas was elected president, and Darlene Hoffman vice president. Board meetings will be the third Monday of each month. Stephanie Bower was approved for the cafeteria staff.
And spring coaches were hired, with Charles Kelly and Nathan Steffey co- assistants in baseball. Sue Meister will be a volunteer coach for indoor track, and Bill Leaders in baseball.