For the 265 professionals who make the Orleans-Niagara BOCES one of the most successful programs in the state, contract justice delayed is justice denied.

Teachers, counselors, social workers, occupational and physical therapists and psychologists — members of the Orleans-Niagara BOCES Teachers Association, led by Kristin Sterling — are now in their fourth year without a new bargaining agreement.

Frustration with management's lack of movement has led to a loud, visible and coordinated union response.

"This is an excellent BOCES because of us," said Sterling, the veteran local leader and member of the NYSUT Board of Directors. "Our members have won regional, state and national awards for their work."

Negotiations have stalled because of chronic management foot-dragging. Sterling said management's delays are keeping both sides from focusing on resolving important issues, such as health insurance and equitable salaries.

The local union's members have responded with a high level of activity, using every opportunity to tell their story to the public, parents and communities they serve.

They recently picketed a regional BOCES meeting and have begun to take their case to the member school districts of their BOCES, working in collaboration with each district's NYSUT locals.

The local is also using billboards and T-shirts to tell their story, and individual members are creating rally placards on their own.

The members' frustration is compounded by the two- and three-year delays suffered in past contracts, but as Sterling said, this one is a record-breaker. Despite these difficulties, she and her members are keeping their eyes on the prize.

"We work hard and deserve a fair contract," Sterling said. "Our members are going to make this happen."