U-46 teachers say they’re not ready to strike
Sorry kids, teachers in Elgin Area District U-46 say they are not planning to strike anytime soon.
Despite chatter that a strike is imminent over the prolonged contract negotiations between the Elgin Teachers Association and the U-46 school board, members from both sides say there is no truth to the rumors.
Kathryn Castle, president of the Elgin Teachers Association representing more than 2,200 educators, said negotiations will continue this week.
“We have not filed an intent to strike,” Castle said.
Changes in the state law last year make it tougher for teachers to go on strike over contract disputes.
The two sides have been negotiating for the past 10 months and teachers are currently working under an extension of the previous one-year agreement. #147;We are continuing to talk and the negotiations are ongoing,#148; said Amy Kerber, vice president of the school board. #147;It has been a very lengthy negotiation, but at this point I cannot comment on what the outstanding issues are.#148;
While no positions on issues like compensation have been presented, Castle said the sides are struggling to find common ground on restructuring the school day.
#147;Both sides are interested in a thoughtful look at reconstructing our schools around what students need and what that needs to look like to get students the best learning they can get,#148; Castle said. #147; We have real different ideas about how to do that.#148;
That includes discussions on the length of the school day and the best ways to deliver instruction, Castle said.
#147;We need a well thought out plan to implement change and we don#146;t think we#146;re quite ready,#148; Castle said. #147;There have been several times where I thought we were nearing completion but at this point it is difficult to say.#148;
Additionally, legislation adopted last June also makes it more difficult for teachers to strike. The new law requires a period of mediation, and final offers from both parties must be made public for at least two weeks before teachers can go on strike.
The school district is currently negotiating contracts with all six of its labor groups.