The Shadyside Education Association said Friday it filed an unfair labor practice charge against the district's board of education.

The charge was filed on Tuesday with the State Employment Relations Board and states that, “On or about Oct. 28, 2009, charged party’s Superintendent, Terry Brinker, through statements to the media, disseminated information regarding specific bargaining proposals that had been exchanged between the parties during their negotiations over a successor agreement.”

In a news release, the teachers' union representatives said their bargaining representatives were circumvented and that by releasing the information, Brinker engaged in public bargaining and direct dealing with employees, in violation of state law.

SEA Chief Negotiator Jeff Mamone said, “These negotiations have been very difficult. It doesn’t help things when the superintendent unlawfully resorts to releasing specifics of bargaining, while at the same time distorting the real effect they would have on teachers’ salaries and school programs.”

SEA President Linda Tomer said, “We would like the public posturing to end. What is needed is for Superintendent Brinker to concentrate his efforts on achieving a fair and equitable contract with Shadyside teachers.”

NEWS9 is working to get the superintendent's response.

The SEA represents 57 certified/licensed education professional educators serving students in the Shadyside Local Schools. The union previously issued a strike notice that would put the teachers on the picket line Nov. 13 if a last-minute deal is not reached.

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