May 4, 2026Board meeting
Blaine County School District Negotiations Meeting
The negotiations meeting focused on the 2026-2027 contract agreement between the district and the Blaine County Education Association. Key discussion topics included consensus bargaining training, language revisions for grievance procedures, parental leave, and professional development bank processes. Extensive discussions were held regarding Reduction in Force (RIF) policy updates, financial projections including budget deficits, insurance cost management, sick leave allotments, and salary schedule adjustments through step and lane movements. The parties reviewed various compensation packages, including potential one-time bonuses for certified staff, while attempting to balance district fiscal sustainability with staff retention needs.