HSTA rejects state's latest contract proposal

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The Hawaii State Teacher's Association's negotiating team has reportedly rejected the state's most recent contract offer, according to a Hawaii Department of Education spokesperson.

In a press release, the Department of Education says the new offer contained $49 million dollars of new compensation and the restoration of a five percent reduction in pay that was instituted in 2011.

"We made a comprehensive and fair offer and remain committed to reaching a contract with HSTA," said Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. "We remain committed to negotiating to reach a resolution that results in a ratified contract."

The HSTA has not yet commented on the proposal.

Teachers at more than 40 public schools statewide have been taking part in "Work To The Rule" protests, in which they only work the mandated 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. hours in their contracts, to express their frustration with current contract talks.

"Everything that we're doing, whether it's on the teacher's side of the table or the Board of Education's side of the table, the object is not to look at one another," said Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie. "The object is for both sides to be looking in the direction of the students."

It is unlikely that the two sides will resume contract negotiations before January 11, 2013.

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