District seeks mediation with Salem-Keizer teacher union as budget shortfall looms

Salem-Keizer School District leaders are seeking state mediation to help resolve negotiations with its teacher union, saying the two sides’ proposals remain over $50 million apart on compensation after months of bargaining.

Superintendent Andrea Castañeda announced the step Tuesday in a news conference. Her decision was prompted by the union’s Sept. 18 proposal for a 13.5% raise in the first year and 12.5% raise in the second year of the two-year contract, which district leaders…