NAPERVILLE, Ill. (WLS) — The Naperville Community Unit School District 203 board president says the district is seeking an agreement that is fair to both teachers and taxpayers. But teachers could walk off the job as early as a week from Monday.

In Naperville, teachers are appealing for a new contract amid increasingly contentious contract negotiations in this pre-K through 12th grade district.

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A rally outside Naperville Central High School got underway ahead of the District 203 school board meeting, which filled a room and an overflow space.

“If we expect our students to treat one another with dignity, then district leadership must demonstrate that same dignity in how they treat their staff,” one woman said during public comment.

“Relationships have been damaged. Teachers don’t feel valued. Teachers don’t feel like they’re appreciated,” said Naperville Unit Education Association President Ross Berkley.

The district and union have been bargaining since February. And last week, teachers voted to authorize the ability to strike. Sticking points include changes to the school day schedule, which the union opposes, as well as salary.

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“We have the number one academically performing district as far as student performance goes as unit districts in the state of Illinois. Our compensation does not reflect that,” Berkley said.

“The union’s current proposal is simply not sustainable. If we were to accept their proposal, our board would have to make tough choices that would directly impact you and your families,” said Naperville 203 Board President Charles Cush.

The district says its latest offer would make Naperville teachers among the highest paid in the region.

“Our offer is strong and competitive with raises across all four years, including a compounded raise of over 10% in the first two years alone and continued excellent health benefits,” Cush said.

Contract talks with a federal mediator are scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week.