Both sides worked very hard to work out this agreement.

We will never accept a lump-sum payment.

The best contract is one where there's meeting in the middle. I think that's what this is.

If they decide it's not good enough, then there will be a strike.

That was a concession. But we understand that health care is expensive and there has been a dramatic increase in the cost of health care.

It certainly passed overwhelmingly, and the vote is a good one.

The Association is pleased that an agreement could be reached so that school would continue. The Association appreciates the district's efforts in reaching this agreement with us. We look forward to moving ahead cooperatively and successfully.

If they ratify, we have a new collective bargaining agreement.