Merrick teachers seek new contract

Merrick School District teachers arrived at the Board of Education's reorganization meeting at Levy-Lakeside Elementary School on Monday donning black shirts — an act of solidarity to protest their displeasure over not yet having their contract renewed.

The previous contract for teachers in the district — which comprises Chatterton, Levy-Lakeside and Birch elementary schools — ran from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2012. The educators said they hoped to have a new contract agreement in place before the previous one expired, but the teachers and board have been unable to come to terms thus far.

About 75 teachers and residents sat quietly during the board meeting, patiently waiting for their opportunity to speak. When the time came, Ruth Rosenberg, president of the Merrick Faculty Association, addressed the Board of Education on behalf of the teachers. “I represent all of the dedicated, hard-working, industrious and fabulous educators here in Merrick,” she said. “The reason we are all here tonight is because everyone is extremely frustrated and disappointed that it is July 9, and we do not have a new contract for the school year.

“And what I am imploring the school board” to do, Rosenberg continued, “is that you make it a top priority that we start the school year with a new contract, because it’s a top priority for us as the [Merrick Faculty Association], and we hope it’s a top priority for all of you as well.” The short speech received a long round of applause from the teachers.

Gina Piskin, who was sworn in as the board’s new president earlier in the night, responded, “It’s a top priority for us also, and we hope to get it settled as soon as possible.”

Earlier in the meeting, Dr. Dominick Palma was sworn in as the new superintendent, and Dr. Pamela Banks was sworn in as a new Board of Education trustee, succeeding longtime trustee Diane Seaman.

Sheri Iskenderian was also sworn in as the Board of Education vice president, replacing Piskin, who is succeeding Joanne Seibert as president. Seibert will remain on the board as a trustee.