TPS Negotiations September 1, 2026

This meeting was a negotiation session between Topeka Public Schools Communications and a bargaining unit on September 1, 2026, focused primarily on salary and contract terms. The parties discussed salary increase proposals, with the district offering a 2.315% raise plus step increases for eligible staff, while the union sought a 3% raise plus steps. The district emphasized budget constraints, noting that the proposed 3% raise would require additional funding through increased local option budget (LOB) percentages and that student enrollment declines impacted state aid. The union argued that the offered raises did not keep pace with cost of living increases, effectively resulting in a pay cut. Both sides acknowledged compromises made on contract language but remained at an impasse on salary terms. The meeting concluded without agreement, with plans to propose future meeting dates to continue negotiations.