Negotiators to Resume Talks in Effort to End Newton Teachers Strike
After a week-long strike in Newton, negotiators are scheduled to return to the bargaining table on Sunday in hopes of reaching a new contract agreement. The strike has resulted in students being unable to attend classes for six days.
Representatives from the Newton Teachers Association and the School Committee met all day on Saturday following a meeting with a judge on Friday. Both parties expressed their willingness to continue bargaining until a deal is reached. Kelly Henderson, a representative of the Newton Teachers Association, stated, “The NTA is ready and willing and able to bargain, 24 hours a day until a deal is reached.” Chris Brezki, the School Committee Chair, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of getting students back in school on Monday.
However, Brezki acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, saying, “There’s a lot of wood to chop tomorrow if we’re going to get kids back on Monday.” The strike has already resulted in fines totaling $375,000 for union members, with an additional $50,000 fine looming if an agreement is not reached by Sunday night.
Mayor Ruthanne Fuller of Newton has expressed concerns about the union’s demands, warning that they could lead to cuts in other city departments and even the termination of some teachers. She urged caution in signing a contract that could have detrimental consequences for the city’s schools and employees.
Governor Maura Healey also weighed in on the strike, expressing her hope that negotiations would lead to a resolution and students being able to return to the classroom. She emphasized the impact the strike has had on students and their families.
This is an ongoing news story, and 7NEWS will provide the latest updates both on-air and online.
(Note: The provided content does not include any copyright information or newsletter promotion.)
