Health insurance, student funding top Pinellas schools’ legislative platform
The big story: Throughout contract negotiations this fall, Pinellas County teachers and support staff have complained that rising health insurance costs would consume any raises the district offered. The concern became severe enough for the support union to declare their talks had hit an impasse. This week, the Pinellas school board adopted a five-point legislative platform that includes one item aimed at resolving the problem. It calls on the Legislature to look into the impact, cost and feasibility of allowing school districts to voluntarily participate in the state employee health insurance program. Board members said there's little information available on whether getting into the state's program would help them financially as they try to remain competitive while also being fiscally responsible. "We've heard from our staff regarding the cost of insurance," board chairperson Caprice…