Introduced to Hawaiians by the Portuguese in the 19th century, the ukulele has become a staple of the island’s sound. The unique instrument, which employs four nylon strings around a small, guitar-like body, is also quite popular beyond the 50th state.

Going into their March 6 negotiation with Santa Rosa District Schools, David Godwin of the Santa Rosa Professional Educators said the two sides were at an impasse over a contract for instructional staff. Santa Rosa Professional Educators is the union which represents instructional staff such as teachers in the county’s public schools.

While neither side has budged much in contract talks, SRPE brought forth a new proposal to try and garner a compromise with the district.