We understand that the Board of Education has stated publicly that it desires to reach an agreement with the Floral Park-Bellerose District Teachers' Association. We applaud that desire, and state that we too expect a fair, reasonable and timely settlement.

However, the board's representatives at negotiations have not agreed to a new negotiations date, nor have they formally declared impasse.

There can be no settlement without face-to-face negotiations. We urge that the Board of Education move these negotiations forward.

Valerie Lucas

President, Floral Park Bellerose District Teacher's Association