Struthers strike intent issued

Negotiations began in May under the auspices of a
federal mediator.

By WILLIAM K. ALCORN

VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER

STRUTHERS — The Struthers Education Association has sent a 10-day notice of intent to strike to the board of education.

About 50 of the teachers crowded into the board room Tuesday during a special meeting at 5:30 p.m.

“We’re here to encourage the board to reopen negotiations and ... arrive at a fair and equitable settlement with the teachers,” said Beverly Dobos, SEA spokeswoman.

The teachers were carrying signs saying “Settle Now,” “Treat Us With Respect” and “Struthers Teachers Stand United.”

Negotiations, which began in May, broke down and have been under the auspices of a federal mediator for several weeks.

The last negotiating session was Friday, and no new talks had been scheduled as of Tuesday evening. The teachers contract expired June 30.

Despite the impasse, both sides say they don’t want a strike.

“No one wants a strike,” said Sheri Noble, board president. But, she said, the board believes it has presented the teachers a fair proposal.

Despite voting to send a letter of intent to strike, Dobos said the union has not taken a strike vote, and is “optimistic we can resolve this.”

Dobos said the teachers have cooperated with the board attempting to improve the schools’ finances by campaigning for levies and accepting wage freezes for six of the last 12 years.

“Now it’s time to pay us back,” Dobos said.

The teachers are scheduled to return to school Aug. 20, and students arrive Aug. 27.

alcorn@vindy.com