While District 158 officials and the Huntley Education Association (HEA) negotiation team have met regularly throughout the summer to work out a contract, the two sides have now agreed to work with a mediator.

The parties, including representatives of the Board of Education, last met on Thursday, Aug. 9. At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed that the next best step is to work through a mediator, according to a joint press release from the Board of Education and the Huntley Education Association

Although District 158 teachers will be starting the year without a new contract, all parties remain committed to seeing this through without affecting the school year or students, the release stated.