One of the largest teachers associations on the Central Coast is calling an impasse over negotiations regarding salaries, working conditions and curriculum.
The announcement moves the negotiation process into another stage.
Superintendent Dave Cash with the Santa Barbara Unified School District said he's disappointed that an impasse was called this week. He said dialogue is key to resolving differences.
Santa Barbara Teachers Association President John Houchin said little progress had been made in the four bargaining sessions with the district. He said they're reaching the half-way point in the school year and felt it was time to seek outside help to get a fair agreement.
Superintendent Cash says the district is now waiting for further direction from the Public Employee Relations Board on how to proceed.
Both sides say they hope to resolve the matter quickly.
The Santa Barbara Teachers Association represents nearly 800 teachers working in the district.
