ORANGE

The Orange Unified School District has sent letters to its teachers urging them to vote “yes” on a union-sponsored referendum to end the contentious salary negotiations.

By voting “yes,” the teacher signals that he or she wants to vote on the district’s latest offer, which includes substantial pay raises for veteran teachers and slight raises for beginning teachers. A “no” vote sends the proposal back to mediation.

The district’s letter, signed by board President Linda Davis and Supt. Barbara Van Otterloo, told teachers that voting “yes” would ensure a speedy increase in pay. Also, “We share with you a desire for harmonious labor relations,” the letter states.

The Orange Unified Education Assn. sent ballots to its 1,500 members Aug. 25. They are due Tuesday.