Teachers Union Protests Outside School Board

Members of the University City Education Association protested outside the School District of University City school board meeting Thursday night. The teachers union is upset with a contract offered to district teachers from the district. 

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Rosana Benitez, a 20-year teacher in the district, spoke for the teachers during the board meeting. 

She said teachers were disappointed with the administration's decision to walk away from negotiations and offer a contract that "freezes steps for those not working on a masters degree." 

"Up until two years ago, we were dealt with compassion, fairness and understanding," Benitez said. "A huge shift has happened and now it feels like someone has to win. Ultimately, everyone loses this way."

Benitez is an 18-year member of the negotiating team. The teachers are seeking a return to the negotiating table.

The Board of Education has a policy against speaking to citizen comments, as noted in its monthly agendas, "We ask that remarks be limited to three minutes and that you please speak to issues. The Board cannot discuss personnel matters or individual student concerns in public sessions. The Board and Superintendent will not immediately respond to questions prior to conducting an inquiry, however, responses will be provided by an appropriate person as quickly as possible."

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