Superintendent Contompasis and schools throughout the city have begun preparing families for the possibility that the Boston Teachers Union may stage an illegal one-day strike on Thursday, February 15. Despite a recent order from the state Labor Relations Commission to "cease and desist" any strike planning activities, union leaders appear to be moving forward with a scheduled strike vote on February 14. BPS is sending an automated phone message and letters home to families in eight languages, alerting parents that if teachers do vote to strike, school would be cancelled for all students on February 15, and that they should begin seeking alternate child care arrangements. In the event of a strike, all employees (except bus drivers and bus monitors) would be required to report to work as usual. In his letter, the Superintendent urged families to listen to news and radio broadcasts on the night of February 14 to learn whether or not school is in session. For more information about the possible strike and ongoing negotiations, visit the BPS website.
5 comments:
The district ought to try to settle the contract!
I just heard that this could turn into a two day event, getting an early start on school vacation. Boston kids are under-achieving by the thousands, parents will struggle for child care. Can't the teachers union settle this some other way?
This is such a disservice to the children of Boston. Last time I checked, BPS teachers were among the best paid in the state with a benefit package that makes the rest of us working stiffs drool. I hope other parents and residents express their outrage and offer to keep the schools open. This is one line I will happily cross.
Parents do not understand what teachers go through everyday, and they do in fact deserve more. Although the issue of raising class sizes was dropped, it would have been something that affects all students in a negative manner. Teachers have a right to express their opinions. Negotiations have been going on for too long and something has to be done; it's a last resort. It's good that the strike's been cancelled, but the school system should pay more attention to the concerns of teachers, students, and parents.
I do agree with Lorena. Teachers deserve alot more respect. They deserve a contract. More students in classes would be a detriment to our success!
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