The Minneapolis teachers union announced it will vote on whether to strike after an agreement with the district over contracts wasn't reached.
A statement from the Minneapolis Federation of Educators (MFE) said members will vote between Oct. 23 and 27, following a Tuesday night mediation session between the two groups.
“We came into mediation hopeful and ready to settle our contracts. But after a 15-hour mediation session and publicly expressing a willingness to settle, the district offered no meaningful solutions to the problems facing students, families, and educators,” said Marcia Howard, president of MFE’s teacher chapter.
“While the district’s response was disappointing, we remain committed to reaching an agreement.”
Educators are asking for smaller class sizes, enhanced special education staffing, better wages and have drafted proposals they said address pay disparity for adult educators and educational support professionals.
“We’re not asking for the sun and the moon,” said Catina Taylor, president of MFE’s ESP chapter. “Budgets reflect your values. MPS spends millions more than other districts on outside contracts and training new staff because of high turnover, and has more money than necessary in its rainy day fund. It’s time to spend the money we have where it matters most.”
Since negotiations commenced in April, MFE said it's made 35 proposals to the district over nine public sessions, before filing for mediation in August.
The next session is scheduled for Oct. 30.
KARE 11 reached out to Minneapolis Public Schools for comment and will update the story with its response.
Source: www.kare11.com
