The Kuna School District and the Kuna Education Association (KEA) have been involved in an ongoing process of interest-based problem-solving and negotiations. The model has proven to be highly effective in reaching a negotiated agreement and collaborating to solve problems. The KEA representatives are selected by the association and district administration representatives are selected by the board of trustees. 

Formal negotiations, as outlined in Idaho Code 33-1271 typically begin after the Idaho legislature establishes the public school budget. Accordingly, these meetings are subject to open meeting law, and the team meets for however many meetings it takes to come to agreed-upon contracts for the school year. 

In contrast, collaboration between the school district and the KEA happens monthly in order to address concerns, get input on strategic initiatives, and assist teachers in creating the best environment for students to learn. KEA members are also involved in collaboration in a variety of district committees, such as calendar, insurance, and the strategic plan working committees. These meetings are not formal negotiations and are not subject to open meeting law requirements. As needed, guests may be invited to attend and participate in the meeting.

Typically, the team will meet to collaborate throughout the school year. When the group’s work shifts to formal negotiations, those meetings are posted and the public may attend.