An unspoken tension filled the room Aug. 26 as members of the Teamster Local 773 attended the BASD Board meeting en masse, making a silent statement of their solidarity supporting the school district clerical staff, who have not had a contract since the last one expired on June 30.

Attempts to negotiate most recently as Aug. 24 made no progress, and led to the union’s unanimous decision to strike on the first day of school, Aug. 26. School did open as planned without clerical and secretarial staff. Strikers could be seen outside BASD schools and administration buildings.

Union employees are asking for a three-year contract with a 14 percent pay bump for the first year of the contract and a 5 percent pay raise for each of the next two consecutive years.

BASD Supt. Dr. Jack Silva said, “They are, right now, well compensated compared to any school district’s clerical and secretarial agreement across the Lehigh Valley in terms of wages and benefits and everything else.”

According to a prepared statement read at the meeting, “Negotiations will continue in pursuit of a fair agreement.”

Editor’s note: An agreement was reached by week’s end and clerical workers returned to their duties.

Other district business went as expected. Agenda items that were previously discussed at committee meetings were passed.

Recognitions for PSBA school director awards were given to board members Winston Alozi, Emily Schenkel and Kim Shively for five years each of service. Michael Fascinetto was recognized for 15 years of service. Members are recognized for their leadership and statesmanship.