With a deadline looming for a possible state government shutdown, the effects are impeding teacher contract negotiations in several Oakland County school districts. In Waterford, four unions have been working without a contract since June 30, with the last teacher contract approved in 2023. “Class size is tied to money, overage pay is tied to money, substitute pay is tied to money, sick days are tied to money,” said Mary Craite, longtime Waterford teacher and Waterford Education Association president. “The Waterford School District has collaboratively met and negotiated with our teachers union since April of this year. Superintendent Michael Lonze sent a letter to district families earlier this month updating them on the status of the district if a shutdown occurred.