The New Jersey Mediation Continuation Accord (NJ MCA) is an agreement between the New Jersey Department of Education, the New Jersey State Board of Education, and local school districts in New Jersey. The NJ MCA allows school districts to continue to use mediation as a primary dispute resolution method for resolving teacher and school board contract disputes. The NJ MCA consists of two types of agreements: (1) Voluntary Mediation Agreement and (2) Mandatory Mediation Agreement. The Voluntary Mediation Agreement allows for school districts and teachers to voluntarily agree to participate in mediation for contract disputes. The agreement allows for an independent mediator to assist parties in reaching a mutually beneficial resolution. The agreement also encourages parties to use collaborative problem-solving techniques to resolve disputes. The Mandatory Mediation Agreement requires school districts and teachers to participate in mediation for contract disputes. The agreement outlines the procedures for mediation, such as the selection of a mediator, the process for submitting and responding to proposals, and the timeline for mediation. The agreement also specifies that the mediator’s decision is binding on both parties. The NJ MCA provides school districts and teachers with an effective and efficient way to resolve disputes. It encourages the use of collaborative problem-solving techniques, which can help to ensure that both parties reach a mutually beneficial resolution.