Newton Teachers Continue Strike as Fines Mount
Teachers in Newton, Massachusetts, took their ongoing strike to the State House before returning to Newton City Hall for a series of rallies. The strike has resulted in a sixth day of canceled classes in the Newton Public Schools. Supporters gathered in Boston and marched into the State House, hoping to meet with Gov. Maura Healey and other elected officials. Meanwhile, back in Newton, teachers and supporters held a separate rally.
During the rally at City Hall, English teacher Mike Schlegelmilch criticized Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, stating that she needs to be present in the bargaining room until a fair contract is reached. The rally concluded with a march around City Hall, with teachers chanting “Vote her out.” Some teachers attempted to meet with the mayor but were met with resistance. Union officials claimed that Fuller locked herself in her office, and when the police intervened, the teachers complied with their order to leave.
The Newton teachers have been on strike since last Thursday, resulting in canceled classes since Friday. Their contract asks include addressing student mental health, higher wages, and paid family leave for all educators. While union representatives have expressed dissatisfaction with the negotiations, Newton officials have argued that their most recent offer provides competitive wages and benefits without requiring layoffs of essential city employees.
Strikes are illegal for public employees in Massachusetts, and as a result, fines have been imposed on the Newton Teachers Association for each day they remain on strike. The fines have steadily increased and currently amount to $375,000. Despite the fines, striking teachers have received support from various individuals and organizations. Rep. Ayanna Pressley joined the teachers in showing her support, emphasizing the importance of their work.
The Newton teachers’ strike follows similar strikes in Brookline, Malden, Andover, Haverhill, and Woburn since 2022. In these cases, tentative agreements were reached to end the strikes after a few days of canceled classes. However, the Newton teachers remain determined to continue their strike until their demands are met, even in the face of rising fines.
In conclusion, the Newton teachers’ strike continues to impact the education system in the city. Both teachers and supporters have rallied for their demands, while fines have been imposed on the union. The strike has garnered support from various individuals and organizations, and the teachers remain resolute in their pursuit of a fair contract.
