Newton Public School Teachers Vote to Authorize Strike Over Contract Negotiations
Public school teachers in Newton, Massachusetts will be going on strike after unsuccessful contract negotiations with the city’s school committee. The Newton Teachers Association President, Mike Zilles, announced the strike on Thursday evening. As a result, all schools in Newton will be closed and school-related events and activities will be postponed until the strike is resolved.
On Friday, teachers took to the streets, marching with signs to West Newton Square and holding several demonstrations throughout the city. A rally at City Hall later in the day drew a crowd of at least 1,000 union members and their supporters. Additional rallies are planned for Saturday.
Zilles emphasized the need for support from the city’s political leaders, including the school committee and city council. He specifically mentioned Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, urging her to take action. In response, Mayor Fuller expressed her desire for a competitive offer for the teachers and a sustainable contract.
The union members have requested higher pay raises, parental leave for all educators, and the hiring of more social workers to address student mental health as part of the new contract negotiations. The negotiations have been ongoing for 15 months, even before the expiration of the previous union contract.
Anne Carey, a teacher in Newton Public Schools, highlighted the financial struggles faced by teachers, stating that the starting salary for full-time employees is only $26,000 per year. Zilles claimed that the city has $55 million available to meet the union’s demands, but Mayor Fuller refuted this claim, stating that the one-time funds have already been allocated and used.
Mayor Fuller expressed her disappointment with the strike announcement, calling it a sad day for Newton. She reiterated her belief that negotiations should take place at the negotiating table and that students should be in the classroom.
This is an ongoing news story, and further updates will be provided by 7NEWS.
