Newton Teachers to Strike as Contract Negotiations Fail
Newton, Mass. – After failed negotiations for a new contract, teachers in Newton will commence a strike on Friday. The decision to strike was announced by Mike Zilles, the President of the Newton Teachers Association, who stated that 98% of union members voted in favor of the action. In response, Newton city officials have declared that schools will be closed indefinitely, with all school-related events and activities postponed until the strike concludes.
During a press conference outside City Hall, Zilles criticized Mayor Ruthanne Fuller and called on her to “fund the schools.” He emphasized that the Newton Teachers Association is standing up for the citizens, students, and educators of Newton and demanded that the mayor take action.
In a separate statement, Mayor Fuller expressed her disappointment with the situation, stating that “This is a sad day here in Newton.” She urged both parties to return to the negotiating table, emphasizing that the students belong in the classroom.
Although strikes are illegal for public employees in Massachusetts, several teachers unions in the state have engaged in strikes in recent years. Communities such as Brookline, Malden, Haverhill, Woburn, and Andover have witnessed strikes despite the legal restrictions. However, teachers unions that strike in defiance of state law can face court orders and fines.
In an attempt to prevent the strike, Mayor Fuller and other city leaders had called on 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 potential strike.
Reacting to the news, Newton Public Schools Superintendent Anna Nolin expressed her sadness over the failure of negotiations. The teachers’ previous contract expired at the end of August, and since then, they have been working without a contract. The Newton Teachers Association has demanded higher pay raises, parental leave for all educators, and increased hiring of social workers to address student mental health. Despite ongoing negotiations, the association claims that there has been no meaningful movement from Mayor Fuller and the School Committee to reach a fair agreement.
Zilles argued that the city has access to $55 million that could be used to address the teachers’ demands, but Mayor Fuller refuted this claim, stating that the one-time funds have already been allocated and utilized.
While the teachers continue their strike, the district will provide grab-and-go meals to families, similar to what was done during the COVID-19 pandemic. Superintendent Nolin assured families that they would receive daily updates by 7:30 p.m. regarding school closures for the following day.
On Friday, a mediation session is scheduled between the Newton Teachers Association and the School Committee. Additionally, teachers plan to picket outside every Newton school starting at 9 a.m. before gathering for a rally at City Hall at 1 p.m.
Newton’s public school system comprises 22 schools with a combined enrollment of over 11,700 students, according to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
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