MCDONALD, Ohio - The McDonald teachers' union contract is set to expire in one day. 

The McDonald Education Association (MEA) has been in negotiations with the district all summer, citing salary as a central point of concern.

The MEA says they've reached a breaking point in negotiations, calling in a federal mediator to help. But the union is hopeful and has never gone on strike before. 

Staci Conley, an MEA representative, says that the union wants a fair contract. 

"We are hoping that if we get a fair and equitable contract, all of that can be avoided. That is something we don't want to do," said Conley. 

Conley sent a statement Saturday to the 21 Newsroom. 

The parties were unable to reach a settlement, we remain optimistic.  Another mediation session was scheduled for Monday September 9th.

McDonald Schools has been in session for a week and a half. 

Superintendent Kevin O’Connell tells 21 News that although there is no new contract, both sides have made progress and have agreed to continue to negotiate into next month.