The district argues that these proposals would lead to significant additional spending and potential staffing cuts.
The strike was triggered by concerns over large class sizes, salaries not keeping pace with inflation, and a lack of resources.
The teachers' union has proposed a roughly 20% salary increase over three years, more planning time for teachers, and lower class size caps.
This is the first teacher strike in Portland Public Schools' history.
Portland Public Schools, serving approximately 45,000 students, have been closed due to a teacher strike initiated by the Portland Association of Teachers. This marks the first teacher strike in the district's history. The strike was triggered by concerns over large class sizes, salaries not keeping pace with inflation, and a lack of resources. The teachers' union, representing over 4,000 educators, has been negotiating with the district for a new contract since the previous one expired in June. Despite 20 bargaining sessions, the two sides have failed to reach an agreement.
The union has proposed a roughly 20% salary increase over three years, more planning time for teachers, and lower class size caps. However, the district argues that these proposals would lead to significant additional spending and potential staffing cuts. The head of the teachers' union believes the district has the necessary funds to meet their demands, but the district has not responded to these claims. The governor and lawmakers are currently unwilling to allocate more funds for schools.
The strike has led to the discontinuation of extracurricular activities and child care, although varsity sports will continue. Some schools will offer meal pickup services, and student health centers and mental health programs will remain available. Tutoring will continue during the strike, but online classes will not be offered. Parents have expressed disappointment and concern over the impact of the closures on their children's education and their own work schedules. Picket lines will continue at the 81 Portland schools, with another bargaining meeting set for Friday.
The strike began after the two sides failed to reach an agreement after 20 bargaining sessions.
The head of the teachers' union believes the district has the necessary funds.
The governor and lawmakers are currently unwilling to allocate more funds for schools.
Picket lines will continue at the 81 Portland schools, with another bargaining meeting set for Friday.
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Angela Bonilla, the head of the teachers’ union, said she believes the district has the money. This statement could be seen as biased as it is not supported by any factual evidence.