Both Sides Respond Following Controversial FCPS Work Session
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The potential introduction of a collective bargaining resolution stirred heated conversation among Fayette County Public Schools employees and school board members. The board’s response and subsequent decisions sparked controversy and have elicited responses from both sides of the issue.
The Collective Bargaining Resolution Proposal
Board member Amanda Ferguson introduced the collective bargaining resolution, which would enable teachers and staff to vote on whether they want to be represented by a union. However, the Board Chair and Boyle County High School Educator, Tyler Murphy, stated that the board decided not to include the resolution in the May 20th agenda, in compliance with traditional protocol.
“Whenever the board brings forward a consideration item, we operate within a two-meeting cycle. This allows us to review the situation, pose questions, and evaluate before deciding,” Murphy stated.
Despite Ferguson’s motion to include it in the agenda, the motion did not receive a second.
“Our established processes aim to promote transparency. Any item placed on the agenda should be given at least two meeting cycles- not just for board members to review, but also for the public. When we post the agenda and associated items publicly, we grant the public the opportunity to provide their input,” Murphy added.
The Teachers’ Union Stance
Nema Brewer, the organizer of the teachers’ union, Kentucky 120 United-AFT, expressed that the May 20th agenda was not their only objective.
“Although we understood that we did not have the necessary support to have it on the agenda, the intention was to open up the process and observe if this was an attainable goal in Fayette County,” Brewer said.
Brewer stated that a collective bargaining resolution would empower staff to negotiate contracts and determine the terms of their employment. She mentioned that Monday’s decision is not seen as a setback by them.
“This is a call by your employees in Fayette County Public Schools who say they do not feel heard, see current policies as ineffective, and think it’s necessary to be more proactive and be included in the dialogue,” Brewer added.
The Road Ahead
Murphy pointed out that it would be the board’s responsibility to decide what happens next with the proposed resolution.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides remaining firm in their positions. With the board’s next steps causing anticipation, stakeholders continue to monitor the situation closely.
