Newton Teachers to Go on Strike After Failed Contract Negotiations
Newton, Mass. – The Newton Teachers Association announced on Thursday night that teachers in Newton will go on strike starting Friday. The decision came after negotiations for a new contract failed to reach an agreement. The strike was authorized by 98% of union members.
As a result of the strike, all schools in Newton will be closed on Friday, and school-related events and activities will be postponed until after the strike ends. Newton city officials made this announcement in response to the strike.
During a press conference outside City Hall, Newton Teachers Association President Mike Zilles criticized Mayor Ruthanne Fuller and called on her to “fund the schools.” Zilles stated that the teachers are standing up for the citizens, students, and educators of Newton and that they have had enough.
Mayor Fuller responded to news of the strike at the Newton Education Center, expressing her disappointment and calling it a sad day in Newton. She emphasized that negotiations should take place at the negotiating table, while students should be in the classroom.
Although strikes are illegal for public employees in Massachusetts, several teachers unions in the state have gone on strike in recent years. These strikes have taken place in communities such as Brookline, Malden, Haverhill, Woburn, and Andover. Unions that strike in defiance of state law can face court orders and fines.
In an effort to prevent the strike, Mayor Fuller and other city leaders urged the teachers to reconsider their decision. The Newton School Committee also filed a “strike petition” with the state Department of Labor Relations to request an investigation into the union’s potential strike.
Newton Public Schools Superintendent Anna Nolin expressed her sadness over the failure of negotiations and the resulting strike. The teachers have been working without a contract since August, and according to the Newton Teachers Association, there has been no meaningful movement from Mayor Fuller and the School Committee to reach a fair agreement.
The union also criticized Mayor Fuller for underfunding the schools in Newton, while other districts have increased their allocations to public schools. Mayor Fuller, on the other hand, stated that the School Committee is committed to settling the contract in a way that honors the educators and staff, allows for program improvements, and avoids layoffs and budget reductions.
The strike poses additional stress for parents and caregivers who are scrambling to make alternative arrangements for their children. Mayor Fuller expressed her concern for the students and suggested that negotiations should continue with the mediator appointed by the State.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided by 7NEWS.
