GLOUCESTER – Schools in three Massachusetts communities have closed again, and the the pressure increases for striking teachers and their school committees to reach contract agreements.
Gloucester
Gloucester teachers said this was the closest they came to a deal, but it wasn’t enough, even after meeting with the mayor. In Gloucester, the impasse continues over the pay of paraprofessionals. Standout teachers said they won’t abandon paraprofessionals, but said they are closer than ever.
“If management would work with the deal that is on the table and look at the numbers the way we have arranged them, this deal could be done tonight. It could have been closed before dinner. That’s how close it is “, said Rachel Salvo Rex. co-chairman of the Gloucester Teachers Association.
Beverly
In BeverlySchool leaders said even if there are no snow days this winter, the district will be forced to hold classes during holidays, weekends or other non-school time to meet the state’s mandated 180-day learning period.
Marble head
In Marble headThe February and April holidays are now in jeopardy after the school committee discussed making up the canceled school days.
“The School Committee cannot make a final decision until we know where we stand when it comes to when schools go back to school and students go back to school,” Superintendent John Robidoux said during a School Committee meeting.
In the meantime, the teachers’ unions are recovering thousands of dollars in fines if they don’t return to the classroom, as teacher strikes are illegal in Massachusetts.
Last week, a judge imposed a $50,000 fine and $10,000 for each day they don’t return to work.
Tammy Mutasa
