DEAR EDITOR:

I want the following to be passed in the state Legislature concerning contract discussions between public school teachers and public school boards when teacher contracts expire.

1. When a contract is about to expire, the first discussion between teachers and school board members must start on March 1 of the year the contract expires.

2. Teachers and school board members have until Aug. 1 to agree on a new contract.

3. If, on Aug. 1, a new contract cannot be reached between teachers and school board, the dispute will go to a neutral third party.

4. The third-party decisions are final.

5. If the neutral party cannot have a decision before the first day of school, school must start on time, with both teachers and students in the classroom.

I want this law to take effect Jan. 1, 2024. I am a retired public school teacher.

BOB WILKESON

Poland