Kentucky’s largest school district is headed to mediation with the county’s teachers union. The mediation will be overseen by a third party mediator, and both sides are hoping negotiations will bring a resolution as they head into the new school year.

According to the president of the teachers’ union, negotiations without third-party support have broken down. This came after a recent meeting between the union and the Jefferson County Public School district. He believes bringing in a third party will help resolve the matter, even though the groups haven’t needed intervention in more than 20 years of negotiating.

The president pointed out the groups are still experiencing significant differences concerning compensation issues.

The union recently presented a new proposal to the district and expected the district to respond with a counter offer. The union was surprised when the district instead stated it was done and would seek mediation. The union agreed to mediation.

According to the district superintendent, the district has offered fair and equitable proposals that were rejected. Reportedly, the district’s offer included full step increases, as well as salary increases and an offer to subsidize National Board Certification. There was also a plan to create a pool of up to $4 million for school support. There was also discussion about adding an incentive to recruit teachers from outside district to help with math, science, and other high priorities. According to the union, though, this offer also included “significant” take backs on sick leave and unpaid medical leave.

The district is currently in negotiations with two other large unions – the local teamsters and the local chapter of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees.