The members of the Grayslake Education Association care very deeply about the students of this district. They are the individuals that have the most direct contact with the students and it is their efforts that have the greatest impact on the students of the district. They are the people that consistently spend extra hours in these schools giving your students, and all students, unique, meaningful and rigorous educational experiences and opportunities. It is these experiences that have led to both schools becoming award-winning and nationally recognized schools.
As many of your students have, or have had, teachers here, you are aware of the dedication, commitment, passion, and knowledge that these teachers exhibit on a daily basis.... the teachers who work tirelessly to not only prepare students for their post-secondary endeavors, but to cultivate life-long learners who will positively impact our community and the world around them with the knowledge and skills acquired here. Additionally, many of you are also aware of the dedication and investment by ESP staff that do the countless both up front and behind the scenes things that make this entire district function more smoothly, also to the benefit of your students. We work hard for our students, our schools, and our community.
Since the beginning of the school year, we have been working without a contract. Therefore, we are here tonight to show our commitment to working together, through the mediation process, with the Board of Education, to craft a contract that benefits the entire D127 community: the students, the staff, and all members of this community. We look forward to working together. Thank you.