Summer is dwindling. It is always at this time that I reflect on all that I expected to accomplish during my time away from school and realize that some things must be done and some will have to be put off until another time. The school board should also be reflecting at this time on what needs to be done now and the diminished time to get it done. The teachers return to their classrooms in four weeks. The contract between the board of education and the Port Washington Teachers' Association expired June 30, 2001. It the past, a new contract was always negotiated prior to the first day of classes. I am very concerned this year because with only four weeks remaining to the summer break, we have yet to settle an equitable contract. The teachers understood the need to wait until other weighty issues, such as the bond issue and budget, were resolved before serious talks could begin; well, those issues were settled two months ago!

All I am asking is that a fair contract be negotiated before the first day of school. I give to the students of Port Washington my finest efforts, above and beyond expectations. Is it too much to ask the board of education of Port Washington to give their best effort to settle this matter in a timely and fair manner?

Elaine Labrocca