Klamath Falls Schools Superintendent Addresses Impasse with Classified Employees Union

District remains committed to reaching fair agreement despite formal bargaining deadlock

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:59am

The superintendent of Klamath Falls City Schools in Oregon has released a statement addressing an impasse in contract negotiations with the Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees (KFACE) union. While the two sides have reached a formal deadlock, the superintendent says the district is committed to participating in state-mandated mediation sessions to find a resolution that supports employees while maintaining the district's long-term financial health.

Why it matters

Contract negotiations between school districts and employee unions can often be contentious, with both sides seeking to balance the needs of workers with the fiscal realities facing public education. This impasse highlights the challenges districts face in trying to reach sustainable agreements, especially during times of tight budgets and limited resources.

The details

According to the statement, KFACE has declared an impasse in the negotiations with Klamath Falls City Schools. An impasse marks a formal deadlock in the bargaining process, but the superintendent says the district remains committed to reaching a fair and sustainable agreement for its classified staff through the state-mandated mediation process.

  • On March 13, 2026, the Klamath Falls City Schools superintendent released the statement addressing the impasse with the KFACE union.

The players

Dr. Keith Brown

Superintendent of Klamath Falls City Schools.

Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees (KFACE)

The union representing classified employees of the Klamath Falls City Schools district.

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What they’re saying

“Klamath Falls City Schools has received official notice that the Klamath Falls Association of Classified Employees (KFACE) has declared an impasse in our current negotiations. While an impasse marks a formal deadlock in the bargaining process, the District remains fully committed to reaching a fair and sustainable agreement for our valued classified staff.”

— Dr. Keith Brown, Superintendent

“We are encouraged that the union remains interested in utilizing mediation during the state-mandated 'cooling-off' period. The District intends to participate fully in these sessions to find a resolution.”

— Dr. Keith Brown, Superintendent

“Our goal remains to support our employees while maintaining the long-term fiscal health of our schools. We look forward to continued dialogue through the mediation process.”

— Dr. Keith Brown, Superintendent

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This impasse highlights the delicate balance school districts must strike between supporting their employees and maintaining fiscal sustainability, especially during challenging budget times. The mediation process will be crucial in finding a resolution that works for all parties involved.