BEVERLY – Parents joined a vigil outside a Massachusetts elementary school Sunday night as they hope the teachers union and school committee can come to an agreement to end the school. teachers strike before Thanksgiving.
Members of the teachers union and school committee arrived on Sunday Beverly met in person to try to reach a deal. Parents at the vigil outside Hannah Elementary School told WBZ-TV they will support their teachers for as long as it takes to get a fair deal.
In addition to the candlelight vigil, the parents also hosted a bake sale, which raised money to cover the teachers union fines that they have built up in recent weeks. Teacher strikes are illegal in Massachusetts and the union is fined for each day they are not in the classroom.
Teachers are striking for benefits like better wages and paid family leave. The Beverly School Committee said a fair offer has been on the table for days. During the vigil, parents said teachers should not agree unless they feel it is necessary.
“It’s been a long two weeks,” said parent Bonnie Keller. “Everyone is tired and ready to go back to school and this is the most important time for us to support our teachers.”
In Marblehead, where teachers are also on strike, school has been canceled for Monday.
