We share a common interest in providing the most effective educational experience for Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS) students. To further that goal, SPPS has established guiding values for negotiating contracts with its 26 employee labor groups.

We believe in:

Professionalism Honest, respectful and direct discussion and communications focusing on issues, not people or personalities	Pride in Excellence Creating a school system in which families, staff and the community can take pride	Fiscal Stewardship Working within our budget to responsibly meet our financial and educational obligations	Student First Promoting an inclusive culture focused on student growth and achievement

We will accomplish this by:

• Providing clear, transparent and timely communication
• Establishing an annual guideline for negotiations among all employee groups
• Identifying district negotiation priorities in alignment with SPPS Achieves.
• Affirming our confidence in our Board designated negotiations team to represent the best interests of our students and the District
• Committing to a sustainable, comprehensive approach to managing district budgets and programs
• Prioritizing what is best for our students