Mediator Starts Work in Grand Rapids Schools GRAND RAPIDS (Michigan Radio) -


Grand Rapids public schools officials and teachers will meet with a mediator today in hopes of settling a contract dispute.

The school district and teachers union have been unable to reach a deal on a new contract. The teachers' union complains the district's latest salary offer doesn't keep pace with their rising out of pocket health care expenses.

Dr. Bernard Taylor is the district school superintendent. He's optimistic today's talks will make some progress.

"Those things can be worked thru in a manner that's fair, equitable and financially beneficial to the school district and the taxpayers of Grand Rapids. These are difficult talks, difficult times, but I think we can work through," says Taylor.

Grand Rapids teachers have been working without a contract for more than a year. © Copyright 2009, Michigan Radio