I am [responding] to school director Cynthia Lowery's letter to the editor (Woodland Hills leader respected, director says," June 18).

Ms. Lowery states that, contrary to [Pennsylvania State Education Association spokesman] Butch Santicola's published statement, the board refused to meet with union officers and officials on June 1, out of respect for Superintendent [Walter] Calinger.

Three members of the board did accept the union's invitation to meet with Lisa Harris, union president; Mr. Santicola; and me. Two of the board members attended the meeting and we discussed numerous issues.

Some board members, not all, refused to meet with us, and whether the refusal was or was not out of respect for [Dr.] Calinger is arguable.

Ms. Lowery says [Dr.] Calinger created Woodland Hills Academy, without "committee" assistance or "expert" help.

Ms. Lowery seems to fail to recognize the legal necessity to bargain with the union and, because [Dr.] Calinger failed to bargain, a grievance was filed and will be arbitrated. Should the arbitrator determine that the district failed to bargain, the academy will not be "a reality." The district may be ordered to stop plans for an academy immediately, return the district staff and students to the 2008-09 school year status quo position, and bargain with us.

Ms. Lowery states that [Dr.] Calinger made it clear that he intends to provide an excellent education to every student. Board members have told me that $2.7 million has been spent or allotted for the academy -- all of the state's stimulus money intended for districtwide use.

Why isn't the stimulus money being spent for all children?

I assure Ms. Lowery that, at no time, did the union file grievances or unfair labor practice charges with the [state] Labor Relations Board as "a tactic." The [union] believes every grievance has merit and the contract was violated in each instance. An arbitrator will determine the viability of each grievance and the labor board will determine whether the district committed an unfair labor practice.