The Springfield Education Association (SEA) members have voted 'no' on a contract with Springfield District 186.

A tentative agreement was reached between the Board of Education and the SEA, but at a ratification meeting on Tuesday, members rejected it.

We're told 80% of the membership at the meeting voted down the agreement.

While the contract was not ratified, SEA leadership is still hopeful.

"The SEA leadership hopes that this gap in understanding can be bridged amicably and seeks to be back at the table with the District by early September, after everyone has had the best opportunity to get back into an educational rhythm once again."

The District 186 Board of Education as well as the District Administration says it settled on the agreement more than three weeks ago.

"The tentative agreement was completed with a handshake between both sides and written tentative agreements were signed by both sides. Unfortunately, it appears that there is significant distance between some union members and union leadership. Consequently, the District and Board will consider next steps and look forward to SEA’s communication on how we can move forward in a timely manner."

It looks like both the union and the district will be back at the bargaining table next month.