Last evening, Lynden School District and the Lynden Education Association (LEA) reached a tentative agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement. This is an important step forward, and we are grateful to everyone who contributed to reaching this resolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The agreement will now move through the ratification and approval process. It is my understanding that a vote by LEA membership will take place this week. If members vote to ratify the agreement, the Lynden School District Board of Directors would then vote on final approval. Once both parties have approved the agreement, it becomes a finalized collective bargaining agreement. The Board vote would most likely take place at its November 12 meeting. Board meetings are held at 516 Main Street and begin at 6:30 PM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am grateful for the negotiating team representing the LEA and the principals and district administrators who engaged in this important and consequential work. Throughout the process, those directly involved maintained respectful dialogue, advocated for their respective perspectives and responsibilities, remained focused on the issues at hand, and demonstrated a willingness to compromise when needed. While we did not always agree, there was never a question among those at the table about our shared commitment to the success, safety, and well-being of Lynden students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our community also needs to recognize the service of the district’s elected Board of Directors. These five individuals carry a tremendous responsibility, and their engagement in this very public process is to be commended. Directors must understand complex and changing circumstances, weigh competing responsibilities, and make decisions collectively. There isn’t always a lot of time to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Last night was a good example of this dynamic. By early evening, negotiations had reached a point where both sides felt good about the progress being made, but one remaining item required Board input. Rather than waiting, I reached out to our directors at 5:30 PM to see if they could make themselves available. By 6:30 PM, four directors were in my office and the fifth joined by phone. They spent the next hour listening, processing information, and engaging in thoughtful discussion that allowed our negotiating team to move forward. Throughout this process, their focus has remained on honoring and respecting the work of our staff, the long-term fiscal health of the school district, and protecting the programs and services our community expects from Lynden Schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I recognize that this process has been difficult and emotional for many in our community. Strong feelings and differing perspectives are understandable, particularly when the issues are so important to the people involved. The reality of our digitally accessible lives includes social media forums where opinions can so easily be expressed. Characterizations of individuals and perceived “sides” are sometimes formed on incomplete or incorrect information. I’m trying to find the right words but just keep coming back to, “we need to do better.” Disagreement is inevitable and often healthy, but how we treat one another through those disagreements matters. We can advocate strongly for what we believe while still extending dignity, grace, and respect to others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is my hope for our community that district staff, administrators, and our governing board continue to work in partnership in service of the hopes and dreams parents have for their children and students have for their futures. I know I am biased, and we’re not a perfect school district, but we have a good thing going in Lynden. All of us imperfect humans need to work together to keep students at the center of all we do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I am grateful for the commitment and dedication of the participants in contract negotiations, and for the patience and understanding of our community throughout this process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
David VanderYacht
Superintendent, Lynden School District<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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