Newton, Massachusetts – No School Again as Teacher Strike Continues and Fines Increase
Negotiators in Newton failed to reach a deal on a new contract, resulting in another day of school closures on Thursday. The ongoing teacher strike has led to growing fines imposed by a judge.
Teachers have been on strike since Thursday evening, and schools have remained closed since Friday. However, strikes are banned among public employees in Massachusetts, so a judge ordered the teachers to return to work or face daily fines. The fines, starting at $25,000 per day, will increase with each passing day and could reach $200,000 by the end of the week if teachers do not return to class.
Despite the mounting fines, the Newton Teachers Association remains resolute. President Michael Zilles stated that they will not capitulate due to the structure of the fines. Teacher Ryan Normandin echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that they will only return to the classroom when a deal that benefits students and educators is reached.
The Newton Teachers Association’s previous contract expired in August. Since then, the union has been advocating for higher pay raises, parental leave for all educators, and the hiring of more social workers to address student mental health.
While negotiations have been unsuccessful so far, the union believes that they have positioned the School Committee and Mayor Ruthanne Fuller to swiftly reach an agreement. They look forward to proactive bargaining in order to reopen schools once a fair contract is settled.
Mayor Fuller and the Newton School Committee have expressed their disappointment with the failed negotiations, stating that it is a disservice to children and families. Fuller emphasized that the current agreement being offered provides competitive wages and benefits without requiring layoffs of essential city employees.
Chris Brezski, Chair of the Newton School Committee, acknowledged that the duration of the strike is uncertain. However, he expressed hope that progress can be made based on the union’s full package of demands.
The teacher strike in Newton is part of a larger trend, following strikes in Brookline, Malden, Haverhill, Woburn, and Andover since 2022. In each case, municipal officials have sought court orders and fines against the teachers’ unions.
If the strike continues, parties will reconvene in court on Friday to discuss a more meaningful approach to ensuring compliance with the law. The Newton Teachers Association fully expects fines to be imposed and remains committed to fighting for the funding their schools deserve.
In the meantime, teachers and their supporters held a rally on Tuesday afternoon, demonstrating their solidarity and determination.
