Lake Villa teachers file intent to strike
The labor union representing teachers in Lake Villa Elementary District 41 on Thursday filed paperwork that brings the district closer to a strike, representatives announced.
The Lake Villa Federation of Teachers submitted an intent to strike with the Illinois Education Labor Relations Board, said Kenzo Shibata, a spokesman for the Illinois Federation of Teachers. That move came a day after a long bargaining session between the union and district officials, Shibata said in a news release.
The filing doesn't mean teachers will strike, the District 41 board said in a letter to parents that was a response to Thursday's filing.
"We remain in good communication with the (union) and, so far, they have given us no indication they will strike," the board's letter read.
The Lake Villa teachers authorized a strike vote in January. The district employs about 180 teachers.
Negotiations have been going on for nine months.
According to Shibata, the union is asking for "modest" pay raises and classroom-based reforms "to improve teaching and learning."
The board has said the sides are divided on issues including starting salary and medical insurance.
The two sides have a mediation session set for Feb. 17.