ALTAMONT - Teachers in Altamont have filed a notice of intent to strike with the state's labor relations board.

The notice filing, required by law 10 days before a strike, does not necessarily mean there will be a strike.

"We are very disappointed that negotiations have bogged down," said Cheryl Jackman, president of the Altamont Education Association in a news release. "Our teachers are seeking a fair, affordable contract that keeps up with inflation. We're being forced into this action by a board that is not willing to offer a fair contract or even sit down with us."

The teacher's contract expired Friday, Aug. 15, three days before the first day of classes.

Jeff Fritchnitch, superintendent of the Altamont School District, said he is optimistic that an agreement can be reached in time to avert a strike.

"I think the teachers are looking for a fair contract and I think the board is looking for the same fair contract," said Fritchnitch, who has been serving as superintendent since July 1. "There have been very amiable discussions. There hasn't been any bitterness that I noticed."

Fritchnitch said he has attended two of the seven negotiating sessions, including the most recent held Aug. 19, which included a federal mediator. The two sides have been negotiating since Jan. 17. While Fritchnitch maintains there has been progress at the bargaining sessions, the union contends in its release that the "board was unwilling to negotiate directly with the association."

The union's release points out that another key item "hindering progress" is class scheduling.

The Altamont district includes a high school and elementary/junior high school, with about 720 students and 65 teachers.

The Altamont Education Association is a local affiliate of the Illinois Education Association.

hfreeman@herald-review.com|421-6985