They don't have a deal yet. But during an executive session late Tuesday, the Pasco School Board gave direction to its administration on where it would compromise to settle its contract dispute with the United School Employees of Pasco.

Officials from both sides said they are optimistic that they can settle without having to complete impasse hearings with a special magistrate.

District employee relations director Kevin Shibley told the Gradebook he planned to schedule negotiations for 5 p.m. Monday with the USEP. Stay tuned.