PPS teachers disappointed with Tuesday’s contract talks

PEORIA, Ill. — Bargainers for Peoria Public Schools and the teachers union met with a federal mediator Tuesday, but a statement from the union indicates the two sides are far from reaching an agreement.

The bargaining chair for Peoria Federation of Teachers (PFT) Local 780, Matt McCaw expressed disappointment with the meeting’s outcome.

“Money continues to be an issue,” the union’s statement said.

The PFT staged a rally in early August that more than 800 people attended, and teachers staged a “silent protest” at Monday night’s school board meeting.

The union’s next bargaining session with the federal mediator is scheduled for September 7.