This comprehensive guide to the procedures and techniques of collective bargaining contains information on all phases of negotiations: the process, the players, preparation, face-to-face bargaining, impasse resolution procedures, and contract administration. It is predicated on the view that school board members and administrators should master these skills in order to limit the interference of collective negotiation in district operations and guarantee the public's right to a thorough and efficient public education system, while meeting employees' needs for fair wages and working conditions. Chapters are included on the following topics: (1) understanding the bargaining process, (2) the players, (3) the legal framework, (4) the board's negotiating team, (5) analyzing the current agreement, (6) analyzing union demands, (7) procedures for effective negotiations, (8) bargaining tactics, (9) communications at the table, (10) mediation, (11) factfinding, (12) teacher's strikes, and (13) contract administration. (TE)