http://www.strongnet.org/negotiationnews

Let the SEA know your thoughts:
Tracy Linscott, SEA President
linscott@strongnet.org or seacommunique@gmail.com

When I read about the fear and safety worries of the board president, made me particularly sad. If your boss thinks everyone's gonna kick his butt, not a real good boss is he? Must have treated folks pretty badly eh? Now he's just a fella afraid to come out of his hole, because the teachers are bullies. Most of the really great leaders accept that people are passionate, and know how to let things blow over, or better yet, lead everyone to return to the problem, just the problem, and only the problem.

The ideation that someone can get hurt is an excuse to avoid discussions to solve a problem, and it is childlike. At this point, regardless of the merit of the union's position, the school board already failed. If you REALLY think teacher's are dangerous, WHY are they teaching???!!!!! Ya big baby!! Now pick yourself up and go play nice with the other kids.

I worry about their conduct during the strike. God knows, they have been awful during "negotiations". I have seen many good teachers and many bad in our time in the system. But, this seems to be more about forcing the town to pay up or else. I, for one, will not vote for another levy anytime soon, so they are advocating that we spend money we dont have. Impossible. Therefore, there will be a strike and further opportunities to alienate the community with appalling behavior. I believe we may have to start over and let them find the golden egg elsewhere. Sad, but true.

Mr. Frazee : I am so incredibly disappointed if your remarks were quoted correctly in this article. I am you neighbor and I voted for you . I am not a teacher but I happen to back their efforts.
I stood outside your home with a couple other Strongsville residents and about 15 teachers Monday night. There was absolutely no chanting, no loud noise , no menacing behaviour at all. It was simply about 18 people holding candles and signs protesting what we believe is the need for a better contract for teachers in this city. The police were there and said we were perfectly within our rights as long as we weren't loud and if we stayed on the sidewalk and did not get on personal property. This was the case for 90 minutes.

For the BOE to imply that anyone's safety is in jepardy from the Strongsville teachers is probably a good PR tactic but of course it's as far from the truth as you can get. I'm uncertain of the term limits for BOE membership but I hope you and the rest of the board will not run again.

Terry Patterson-
New poster today.
Spreading propaganda.
Probably a teacher.

From now on, this same comment to be posted to the rest of you lowlifes.

Please people ask the Board for clarification of VPG's/ No other district has something like this in their contract. I wonder what they cost us every year. The fact that the teachers do not contribute to their retirement is also unheard of . Union please list other schools in NE Ohio that does this.

Terry Patterson-
Why aren't you working on your class plans or grading papers or meeting with students instead of commenting on the Patch. Until you strike you should still be working during school hours. And don't tell me its your lunch because teachers say they don't have time for lunch.

ST in strongsville-
New poster on Monday- has posted 3 times.
Spreading propaganda.
Probably a teacher, despite saying otherwise.

picketing in front of school board members homes = union thuggery! The teachers & their unions don't get it. Times have changed in this country! Does anybody want another vote on SB 5? Perhaps the outcomewould change.

AS A SHS ALUMNI............AND ENDURED MANY "CRISIS" FROM KINDERGARTEN IN '72 THRU SHS GRADUATION IN '85..........I SAY FIRE ALL THE STRIKING TEACHERS AND GIVE THEIR JOBS TO THOSE WHO ARE DESPERATE TO PUT THEIR TEACHING SKILLS TO WORK....TOO MANY ARE OUT OF A JOB THESE DAYS........

OK all you math teachers.
Get out your calculators and pass the answers along to those buddies of yours who don't know math.

On the schools current path,
"projected deficits are
$1,193,135 for 2014;
$4,677,231 for 2015; and
$10,863,811 for 2016"

I'm unwilling to see any cuts to the students needs, such as books, computers, busing - they should not have to go without. The parents already contribute in many ways, including pay to play.

And, everyone knows there is no way a levy will pass for the teachers - it was hard enough to get a renewal passed and the bond levy for the new middle school. Does anyone really think people are willing to pass another levy any time soon?

That leaves one more solution to these deficits - the teachers. And as they consume, as has been widely repeated, about 85% of expenses, of course this is where the money will come from. And, it looks like they will need to take a cut, based on this - or not get those glorious automatic annual increases in salary just for sneezing that aren't actually called raises.

With all that advanced education, can't they figure that out? Or do they also write checks beyond what they have on deposit in their bank?

Open your eyes - where do you think the money will come from?

And, don't we get less from the state as enrollment goes down? Isn't some state funding based on that?

Lyn, you know that terry is not teaching this week. Most of the teachers are not teaching. They are too busy filling our children's heads with silly nonsense not too mention taking numerous thumbthacks out of their bullitan boards. If another levy goes on the ballot ever again, I'm out of here!

So maybe a group of citizens should go and stare at the teachers homes, or just keep walking up and down the sidewalk nonchalantly. How would they like a bunch of strangers hanging around outside their home? We won't say anything. Maybe they'll wonder if there is a danger, but that doesn't mean there is any.

monica-
If they are not teaching, not be paid. If they are knowingly neglecting their job responsibilities this entire week, they should be fired.

Howabout at 12:01 am monday we go to their homes and yell "na na na na na...you're not worth it!" 83rd in the state...if I was 83rd in my company I would be on the unemployment line!

I think the administration and Board should be visiting the schools and classrooms this week to see and witness whether the teachers are doing their jobs and what they are actually doing in the classrooms.

I will join in with the many other Strongsville residents and NEVER vote for another school levy as long as I reside here.

Since the teachers do not think there is anything wrong with being in front of others homes and just standing around for an hour or more, I think that we all should just find as many teachers homes to stand in front of and do the same. They have indicated by their actions that they approve of this.

Strongsville teachers seem unable to comprehend the animosity being directed toward them. Having spent seven years as a teacher, I know what the problem is -- TENURE.

Tenure is bad. Some teachers are more effective than others - yet the union frowns on giving the best teachers extra pay for excellence. They even frown on paying lousy teachers less. They snarl at the idea of ever firing a teacher. Public school teachers typically get tenure once they've taught for about 3 years. After that, the union and civil service protection make it just about impossible to fire them. They basically have a job for life.

Teacher "tenure" is all but stopping 21st Century educational reform all over the United States.

Ann mentioned something called VPG's.
What are those? I get the impression it has something to do with getting paid for doing your job, just better. Like giving a 20% tip instead of 15%.

But true professionals just take pride in a job well done, and a teacher should also be getting job satisfaction out of knowing the better job they do, the more they might have contributed to a students future. But, to expect more pay for just doing what you should as a professional, an adult - are you freaking kidding me? And they want respect and feel they deserve it? They need to get over themselves.

I can't imagine anyone in the business community saying to their employer, if you really expect me to go the extra mile, you have to pay me more. They would show you the door!

For J williams :
the contract has always been public . It's really long ( and I frankly don't understand some of the terminology) but if you've lived in the city a few years you will notice that the teachers have had a pay freeze for some time and have continued to have their benefits cut. I simply believe that teachers are more important than most jobs : I'm an engineer who has had a much better life than my parents because there were some teachers who cared.
I'm really sorry I signed up to comment on all this. Really not worth the effort when I'm being called a liar . Good luck to everyone

My child attends school in strongsville and has never received anything below an exceptional education. I fear not for her education because her teachers believe they deserve fair wages and benefits. Yes, some of their actions were shocking and forward, but it's a protest, the point is to attract attention to the cause. Noone was hurt, and our children are safe. Honestly I worry more about the fact that we have to live in a city that's apparently populated by judgemental bullies. Stating your opinion during a debate is acceptable, but the utter cruelty toward the educators is brutal. I can't say I 100% agree with the actions or stance of the union group, but I can say with certainty that I'm disappointed in my community for trashing and intimidating them.

And yes, I did just join to leave that message. After reading the posts on patch via facebook, I just couldn't remain silent.

I hope all the parents are calling the administration about
what they are hearing the teachers are doing in the classrooms and
what they are telling the kids and
how they are scaring the kids.

Fire the whole lot of them!!!!! Selfish-Selfish-Selfish!

These teachers are so arrogant and think that they should be excluded from a bad economy. There are 150 teachers making 79,000 or more for 9 months of work. That is the same as making 100,000 for 12 months. I hope they let all of these morons go and hire the well qualified subs, many of whom are ex-teachers. Let them strike, they do not get paid for it. Unbelievable.

Are you calling me Obama mama? I am a volleyball coach (not for strongsville) and a mother, but not a teacher. My name is Lisa. I joined today to express my views that posters here are crossing boundries with name calling and unnecessary cruel judgements. On BOTH sides of the table. I did not as the previous poster stated 'join to promote propaganda'. We are all free and encouraged to stand up for what we believe in, but that does not have to include scare tactics and below the belt jabs. It seems like many posters here aren't even trying to listen to any opposing argument, going so far as to blatently ignore and accuse new members for sharing an opinion. And no I am not the first person to be ignored today on this post for being a first-time commentor. If you have information to challenge an argument or statement please do so, but don't throw someone under a bus and pass unwarranted judgement, it makes you come across as ignorant. And personally I don't value the opinion of an ignorant bully as much as I do the opinion of a knowledgeable fair debater.

VB...what? You said that the msg board folks are "bullying" the unions? Huh? You said you have a young child (or child at home). What the heck do you think you and your family would be thinking/doing if a bunch of people show up at your home, lingering on the edge of your property, chanting or holding candles...especially if you knew those people hated you for "taking" something from them? Are you going to really say to all of these people here that this isn't a form of "bullying?" That this is not a mob tactic? What if your daughter came into your room crying asking why all these people are outside and she's scared. This is almost too ridiculous to argue with someone.

Go protest your workplace...but you don't go to people's private residences, where they and their families reside, to try to "make your point." You said you don't think the board here should include "scare tactics." So tell me, when your daughter is crying bc of the strangers outside of your house, what would you call that?

Myron...I stated that both sides are acting inappropriately. I think protesting homes of board members and calling subs 'scabs' are deplorable actions. I am also sure there are other things they have done that crosed the line as well. I was reading articles and comments to try and educate myself more on the situation and the comments here were so harsh I felt it necessary to post. The mediation isn't going well for either sides and the community of strongsville isn't helping the situation by debating in such a rude and harsh manner. I will continue to read and post comments. I was only posting to try and make some people aware of the words they are sending out. There is a better way to communicate during a confrontation. And yes that does include the actions and words of educators as well as parents.

My biggest worry is for the children, my daughter included obviously. What happens to them if this strike is for the long haul? Substitutes taking in classes they aren't farmiliar with, children getting accustomed to all new teachers three quarters of the way into a school year. This includes students with special needs and high schoolers depending on good grades and adequate education to attend college. This whole situation a is harder on them than anyone else. There were grade school aged children in tears today after being told their teacher would be striking for an unspecified period of time.

I think our time would be better spent d

Discussing the educational impacts of this strike and how to get the kids through it without incident. Rather than arguing and belittling eachother and the teachers. I do not wish to offed or insult anyone and I apologize if I did so, but I do not believe I was being treated fairly and wished to better express my opinions.

It sounds like the Board of Education is encouraging the teachers to strike. To state that they had to cancel a meeting because they are afraid of the teachers is absolutely ridiculous. What is it exactly they are afraid of? I do not believe the Board is negotiating in good faith.
There is still time left before the teachers walk out. But Frazee says he thinks the strike is "inevitable." No, Mr. Frazee. It is not inevitable. Stop canceling meetings. Do your job and negotiate a settlement.
If the teachers do walk out, this is ALL ON THE BOARD.

I have been reading the articles and comments for some time now and I can agree with you that 'some' of the teachers have done and said things that deserve to be called out and rectified, but there are better ways to have your concerns heard. And to be honest, yes I can blame some people on their reactions. Only you can control how you act and react to a problem. I choose to remain level headed and listen to all sides and opinions and then support my views rationally and respectfully.

If the teachers are behaving badly and web sink down and lash back, we are just as bad. Our freedoms give us the right to assemble, protest, and express our beliefs. That doesn't mean though that we have to make everything we disagree on a war of nasty name calling and generalizations. There is a large number if teachers going on strike and if we lose all if them our children will be effected by that loss. That's a lot of educators who have yearsbif experience. I don't think losing them is at all in anyone's best interest. The strike seems unneeded to us as outsiders but to the teachers in this city it's something they believe will better their careers and better their ability to educated young minds. I honestly believe they deserve to be , at the very least, heard and respected.

CPA, you havs NO facts to back up your statement. You know nothing about the negotations.......or......do you?! Assuming you don't, if the union's demands were ridiculously wild, then the BOE would be completely proper at this point, as they are at a stalemate. For which, the last facts we the public know are that they mediated for over 4 hours last night or the night before without so much as a counter-proposal
from either side. If that doesn't sound like stalemate to you, then what does exactly?! It sounds to me like you either are a teacher or are related to one and are startinf to panic about the likely outcome. If that is the case, what the union SHOULD be focusing on is firing all of its failed leadership!

The behavior of these adult teachers, showing up at private residences as a planned activity, taking down their classrooms during the workday, insubordination and inappropropriate comments to the children with whom the are entrusted.....it has done nothing but set the Strongsville Education System back tenfold.

Just read the anger and resentment from parents

Myron....you make a good point and that's exactly the type information and input I'm looking for. I do believe that some of the teachers will be easily replaced, but what about some of the well educated higher level teachers? There are some really good educators in the mix here.

I do hear what you're saying about the attitude and entitlement the union members display. I agree that putting the subs down and saying they aren't going to do a good job is a scare tactic. I will admit I have worried about sending ny daughter to school next week with all new teachers we don't know. And yes, sonebof that fear comes from reading and hearing the negative comments from current teachers.

......parents who have children at the schools. These are the people that usually voted FOR the levies. Now, by the union actions, they have even managed to alienate these voters. Way to go!!!! YOU GET AN F!!!!!! Your leadership has failed you the teachers, our community and most importantly the children. Where have you been?! The economy has stunk for about 7 years now. Everybody is hurting. The teachers are not special. They don't get a free pass! Have you been listening to the numbers thrown out by taxpayers about what THEY have to pay for healthcare now, and retirement?

My pension? I am not a teacher. I'm not sure if my pension as a coach is set up in the same manner. I really didn't understand your post James. Did the other teacher respond?

vbmama, you're only feeding the monster expressing your concerns here. Why do that? If 12,000 air traffic controllers could walk off their jobs in the 1980s and we managed to function smoothly, without putting two planes together, I'm pretty sure this will all be just fine. Quite frankly, if this ended the same way as that strike, with the teachers fired and new teachers put in theirplace, this could aolve a lot of the budget problems. There are only 3 monthe left in the school year. Timinf of this strike seems kind of ripe for that possibility?

This is just another example of how the union leadership has truly failed these teachers. In THIS economy, with unemployed teachers tripping over one another....at THIS time of year.......doesn't seem like a real smart time to be playing chicken with management. Seems like management holds a much better hand, and the union just loses whatever credibility they had left. I alone know of a few unemployed, experienced teachers....

A board of education is suppose to rally a district have a vision for the future and support their employees, the teachers. They have tried to silence the student voice in the matter by intimidating the student liaisonis to not speak in public and silence the First Amendment right to freedom of speech. They even tried to silence myself at the last board meeting. I asked if the crowd would like to hear my voice Mr. Sinisgalli said no. Luckily the super intendent allowed me to speak. I have full respect for him and the board, but the way things are being run cannot be sustained. My advice to the board and the union is to put themselves in the other sides shoes while negotiating. Think how each decision will impact the others job, family, life and ability to keep the district running. when you are compromising you need to feel the other sides point of viewand work together to reach a common goal. let us not just talk but let's act.what's reason a gradient let's plan for the future let's work together to strengthen our district and embody what it means to be district excellence.

see what I mean VB?

Let's see. I don't really know what you said exactly, other than attempt to promote an emotional plea and hypothetical situations to tell people that teachers should get more money bc of a situation that they may or may not ever face. As far as school safety is concerned...another matter entirely...I'm all for CCW holders and armed security. But as far as the end of your paragraph goes in asking "how much is too much under those circumstances"...it's a ploy to get people to try to think emotionally rather than rationally. Are you insinuating that you have knowledge that a substitute teacher would not do the very same for your child if his/her classroom was under attack...because in the moment, he would think, "Hey, i don't get those benefits that the other teachers have so I'm out of here...every kid for himself." You cannot be serious here. I get what your saying to a degree...that people may be asked to do extraordinary things unexpectedly, but if you are trying to make the case that either we need to pay them more bc there's a possibility that it may happen or that if we don't, they may not defend our kids...you are being ridiculous. So do I pay a bank teller or gas station attendant 100K per year bc they sure as hell have a way higher chance of seeing that kind of action than a teacher does. Stay in reality here and we can converse.

I don't disagree that the funding and allocations of such funds is a complete mess. I and also agree with your statement that we are tapped out...bc it's completely true... there are NO funds left unless the teachers literally want to rob students to pay Mr. X. They are already robbing us with us forced to pay portions of the retirement accounts and healthcare, so I wouldn't put it past them.

Here is a stark reality...everyone, and I mean everyone, is replaceable. In any job. In any function. Everyone thinks "wow...this place would fall apart if I wasn't here." Know what...it never does. Steve Jobs dies...Apple moves on. Air Traffic Controllers fired...Air travel moves on. Jesus died...Christianity spread. Deep down, the Union knows it. Stop flattering yourself.

CPA:

1) In your initial post that I responded to, nothing you stated was legally based; thus, it was not based on Ohio law. Your statements drew conclusions without any facts to back them up. I merely pointed out that fact (that, unless have more knowledge than we the public, you don't have enough facts to make your balnket statements about the head of BOE).

2) Careful throwing around wild legal terms without knowing what they mean. It's kind of hard to have something even remotely qualify as defamation when no names were even mentioned.

3) That being said, I did intend for my original post to include "assuming that what the kids are reporting is true," as I do think that is important to point out. Unfortunately, as you can see, my post posted prematurely and that statement was apparently lost in the process. I don't beliece in going off of statements without actual evidence, which is what I was calling you out on in the first ace. So, I do hold myself to the same standard, and am disappointed that my qualifying phrase was lost from my post.

That being said, my point was regarding the claims that teachers are taking down tgeir classrooms

during classtime. Both this behavior (if true) and saying inappropriate things about the strike (if true), and showing up at private residences is immature, unprofessional and represents the very behacior they are supposed to be traching the kids not to engage in. If this resolves, or when, how can they now demand respect from the kids and parents? They have completely undermined any respect they had.

When I was a kud our teachers went on strike. It was handled with civility an professionlism. Our teachers never behaved this way. These teachers ahould be embarrassed and ashamed of their behavior.

Justine,
Yes a budget crisis does exist, and yes taxpayers are tapped out. We all know the state funding is wrong it's been deemed so in a court of law, but that's not going to get fixed anytime soon, and that problem affects all systems not just Strongsville. In regards to pointing our finger at the teachers, yes we are, their salaries and cadillac benefits are the reason we are in this fiscal mess. Do I blame previous school boards yes, but the current board has finally realized it needs to stop. The last time I checked salaries and benefits accounted for 96-97% of the operating expenses of the district, that may have come down slightly, I would have to research a little more. But you cannot operate everything else on 5%, try running your house on 5% of your salary- it's not possible.Nobody has said teachers don't deserve a fair wage, I truly don't think wages are the problem it's the benefits that are completely out of line. As far as the whole shooting issue, there have been shootings at movie theaters, malls, fast food restaurants, gas stations etc, so should those people be paid more ? Shootings are an unfortunate part of modern society, not a reason for a raise.

I'm divided. I see what both of you and both sides are saying. I agree that some teachers should be compensated better while some others are receiving more than seems appropriate. But we are living in a time where it doesn't seem appropriate to strike. A time where it is difficult to find and keep a job, a time when there is a large pool of teachers who are unemployed. It feels as though the teachers are acting entitled, when a good teaching position should be treated as a gift. Especially when there are hundreds of college educated teachers unemployed that would be elated at the same opportunity.

My conflicting opinion is this. Teachers have an important impact on our children and our society. I believe as a whole they should be paid better and treated respectfully. They are helping yo mold our future generation and the excellent rating is an indication that the majority of them are doing their jobs well. Career wise, being a teacher deserves to be a higher paying job.

I still stand firm that both sides could be handling these negotiations with a lot more professionalism and maturity. Without seeing a teachers contract and knowing exactly what they want changed I don't believe I can stand behind either the teachers or the board.

I do appreciate everyone commenting and expressing their views, it helps to hear multiple opinions. And it's been awhile since any of these posts have been slandering or cruel, so that's a small step in the right direction.

This was made during the WI union ordeal...but it is an easy to understand explanation of Unions and why public sector unions are especially detrimental. http://youtu.be/QyxuUjgHkgs

PLEASE NOTE...Unions will not allow anyone to come in to work that doesn't want their representation. Why ALL people don't have a problem with this is beyond me? They don't "own" anything...so why do we give them the right to determine who and who not can come in...bc they formed a union? Please.

I love hearing the answers to this question to: If I don't want to be in your union and want to work out my own salary, benefits, hours, etc. directly with the employer...WHY do I still have to pay union dues? Answer (that you won't get): We need your money to fund our interests and keep us in power...bc if we had a bunch of workers who could come in and not need us (hence not pay us)...we'd be useless and lose our power of you.

Good point Myron.

Here is another problem with the Union. You really think every teacher agrees with these tactic. You think every teacher thought it was a good idea to protest out front of Board members homes like a mob? I'm sure many didn't agree...the issue is, you can't have anything but group think centered around group self promotion.

This couldn't be further from "about the kids". This has ZERO to do with them. This is about a market correction in a package that was acceptable when times were good, and nobody really was giving it much thought. Times aren't good, so we need to focus righting ship.

I get Starbucks every AM, and I never think twice about the expense. It's probably $800 a year in coffee, and not a great use of my money because I could make it at home for cheaper, but finances aren't that big of a concern. If I lose my job tomorrow, and funds are coming in/aren't there, then I am a moron if I continue to spend like that. Even if I feel I deserve the coffee...can't do it. Money isn't there for it. Not an "apples for apples" analogy, but a common sense link.

When people join a union, i know it's mandatory to pay dues, but is it also mandatory to buy the world's ugliest satin jackets and mesh hats with oversized logos of your union on them? Is every union member issued an arts and crafts set for signs/pins and a 55 gal. barrel drum, matches and newspaper to start a "strike fire" with as well?

I find it amazing and stooping to a new low to use a school shooting as an argument for a pay raise. That is the second time I've seen it used. Please, do yourselves a favor and remove this one from your arsenal of arguments, teachers. It is disrespectful to the victims of shootings. The read between the lines message is:

1) If I don't get a pay raise, I'm leaving the kids to fend for themselves in an emergency;

2) Any other adults who are in the building that day (administration, parents, etc.) would do nothing; let us not forget that the non-union school principal tried to stop the shooter in Sandy Hook; and

3) Flight attendants have my kids lives in their hands too and statistically speaking, things are more likely to go wrong there. And, they get paid a lot less.

4) Police and fire.....they too have our lives in their hands, definitely on a much more regular basis. This truly IS the job they signed up for. And yet, the teachers seem to think that THEIR job is worth more.

Please, you look completely afool when you bring this up and make it difficult to take anything else seriously as it relates to your side of the argument. And, using the lives of school shooting victims is a new low!

the teachers are telling the kids that their grades during the strike won't count. any truth to that?

My daughter is a senior and now I'm scared that a disgruntled teacher might come in a shot the children. Do I have to send my daughter to school?. I don't trust anyone in this world...if these teacher can protest at someones home what else are they capable of.those ones that went to the homes and protested should be fired ASAP...

according to the Board FAQ's: attendance requirements are the same during the strike: http://www.strongnet.org/cms/lib6/OH01000884/Centricity/Domain/1/Questions%20and%20Answers%202-27.pdf

My nephew and his classmates were told by 2 of their teachers that they do not have to come to class while the "scabs" are there...bc attendance won't be taken and scabs can do whatever they want." They have to go to school and grades count.

I a lot of reservations about sending my daughter to school on Monday. Whichever way this unfolds people aren't going to be totally satisfied. Disgruntled teachers, frustrated parents, confused students. Its just not a healthy learning or working environment.

None of this changes my opinion.
I came into this weeks ago thinking we probably had many good teachers, but felt they were being selfish and greedy.
After their words, actions and all the comments on here, I have little use for the ones who have taken part in any of these deplorable actions and would be happy to see them replaced. They have come on here spreading rumors and lies , acted like fools at the Board meetings, the head of the SEA speaks half truths, and then what really pushed me over the edge was their invading individuals safe places - their homes.

To me they HAVE shown they ARE lowlifes and nothing more than what I stepped in from my dog in the backyard. Sorry, VB, if you think that is awful for me to say. But I am entitled to my opinion as well. And it has been formed gradually based on the teachers themselves. I hope every one of them, except those that have refrained from participating, are replaced. I have no sympathy for them, because they have made their choice and can suffer the consequences. Any fool should have been able to see that if there is no money there, then you get no more and might have to settle for less - the same lesson the rest of us have learned and many are suffering the economics of now, and it wasn't their choice to be in that position as the teachers are deciding now.

Yes I believe generalizing them all as low lives is unfair. And comparing them to dog doo isn't exactly keeping it respectful or civil. You are entitled to your stance and opinion, and I value your honesty. Not every teacher was outside the homes of board members, and even then most if them were expressing the right to peacefully protest. The individuals who used scared tactics or intimidation should be let go,and the teachers who are speaking negatively to the children or spreading false truthes also have no business as educators.

There have been other teaching strikes that took place professionally and without negative impact. This is not comparable to other strikes. I value our teachers, I want them to be happy and comfortable in their positions. We should not talk down about them as a whole. Its truley a dishonest statement to say every teacher who is striking is a lowlife. These are Hunan brings who educate our future leaders, they don't deserve to be slandered or called names because they disagree with their wages and benefits.

*human beings* sorry for any typos. Its difficult to try and type quickly in my phone.

Maybe the congressmen and senators will go on strike too.

Yep!!!

Yes. The union has a lot of responsibility for thus turning out so poorly. I feel like a lot if the teachers didn't have the opportunity to make intelligent individual decisions but were 'talked into it', by union reps and other co workers.

Another good topic is the mob mentality. I wonder how many good teachers are trapped in this mess because they are following the lead of others? We see all the time that people will behave out of character when within a large group. Doing and saying things they never would as an individual.

It's interesting to think how this disagreement would have played out if the teachers would have behaved in a different manner. I don't think they are totally wrong to try and renegotiate contracts, but they may have shot themselves in the collective foot with how far they have gone to be heard.

I really do enjoy the clock on the SEA website counting down by the second to strike day. Their arrogance and self-importance is truly astonishing.

It's exactly why I am a HUGE advocate of making union dues non-compulsory. It's exactly what I spoke of earlier...if what unions do is SO good and SO necessary, why do they need to make it mandatory that you pay them? Shouldn't people want to pay for such a great service? Secondly...just because you unionize, doesn't mean you instantly become part owner of the company. You are still labor. A lot of folks don't understand this concept: AS AN EMPLOYEE, THE ONLY THING YOU OWN IS YOUR LABOR. Nothing more. Not part of the company bc you try hard and you've bought the products. Sorry. That's it. So, when Unions come in and make demands that OTHERS cannot work at MY corporation bc they were there first and unionized...how is that even close to being rational or fair to the person who made all of the financial decisions to start that company? The unions didn't take any risk on their own capital to take an idea and turn it into a functioning organization...but they want the spoils if they think you're making "too much money."
So...as I said, unions CONSTANTLY will tell you how much good they do for their members and members will tell you again and again how much they love their union. So why do they so adamantly resist making membership voluntary? What's the worry if you're so sure about how necessary you really are?

Yes, VB, that was my point earlier. Because of their inability to see the big picture as well as their inability to maintain professionalism, they have not only undermined any possible bargaining power they had with THIS negotiation, but they also have majorly damaged the likelihood of successful outcomes for future levies, which affects future contracts too, because they have so angered the voters with their antics (and by greedily asking for more during lean times). Relations will be damaged between teacher/student, teacher/parent, teachers/board and teachers/voters for YEARS to come now. Which is why, again I say, the first order of business for the teachers to mending this whole thing should be to oust their current leaders, who have currently failed them and done a complete disservice to our entire community.

IMO, carrying a tombstone is a THREAT to another's life that should not be taken lightly. I don't blame them for playing it save and canceling tonight's meeting.

I would document that and even pursue further action if possible.

Who would want any one of these teachers teaching their child? Teaching them what? Greed? Anger? Selfishness? How to threaten and intimidate? How to bring a "headstone" to a board member's house? Absolutely disgusting!

At this point, the contract is almost a side issue when compared to the horrific behavior of the teachers. And if the teachers continue to behave so badly, Strongsville Taxpayers may want to keep the substitute teachers-permanently! Because any teacher that would threaten a board member with a "tombstone" is not a person I would ever want to be near my children! And I am sure there are many in Strongsville who feel the same.

A sad day for the City of Strongsville, but an even sadder day for Strongsville's Teachers whose reputations may never recover.

Nothing but speculation. Wait for the facts to come out before you judge either side

Well, ironically, my children do not attend Sville Schools now. But, I have been monitoring the situation closely as we have a decision to make very soon for our eldest and we were contemplating SHS. This three ring circus is making the decision easier for us. By the way teachers, if you chase more people out of the district and enrollment continues to no down, that doesn't exactly help your position either. Between ongoing and continually unaddressed issues with three of your male athletics programs chasing people to the private schools and now this, SCSD really doesn't need anymore negative advertisement.

Such ignorance and misinformation here. It is truly amazing.

Good luck to you, Strongsville teachers, in securing a fair contract. And please know that the majority of the Strongsville community is with you. Please forgive the ignorant teacher hating posts here- they know not of what they speak.

Whoever this Lyn person is clearly is out of work. All "she" does is post on here all day. Maybe go back to school and get a teaching license. See if you have what it takes to run a classroom? You seem to think you have all the "answers".

Yes for those of you who asked I am the student that spoke at the BOE meeting last Thursday in the white dress shirt. I tried to be as respectful as possible since it's the right thing to do. I respect every member of the board. I did work with them to help pass the school bond which is probably why I was allowed to speak. For those telling me everything is about the students, I know it is! I'm a senior who attends SHS. I support my teachers in this debate (which is turning into a battle) because I see every day the work they put in to try and make all of us kids that much better off in the future. Teachers deserve to be compensated well because they truly love and work extremely hard at what they do and At the board meeting some teachers were even grading tests. Ik there are some bad teachers..as there always will be..but they do not reflect the majority of the teachers employed. No one can replace them.

Why is there so much hate in these posts? How is hate going to resolve this? We are all in this together like it or not. Please stop with the arrogant comments because it is making Sville look bad and not to mention yourself. I am a moderate voice who understands both sides (as we all should be) but I feel there is a lack of leadership on the board and until someone stands up to become one this strike will be inevitabl, long and un necessary.

Louie, it will be interesting to see what your opinion will be when you are actually paying property taxes to fund the schools.

Tina -thank you for your compliments I really appreciate it. It was fun talking to the crowd and the board.

Shame on the teachers who have been acting disgracefully and unprofessionally in front of our children. Packing things when they should be teaching, telling my daughter that replacement teachers will be felons, telling students to stay home in support of their strike...it's all madness.

The Board removed a microphone from the male student liaison's position and the Superintendent called the boy's mother the night before in an attempt to silence his thoughts - according to the student. Frankly, the super looked very weak in his rebuttal.

And Frazee canceling a meeting over perceived safety issues is hilarious. Teachers were interacting with police and fire officials in a respectful, jovial manner at the meeting.

Nobody was intimidating anybody and there were plenty of men in blue. The board wants to test the mettle of the union. The $250 per hour lawyer is trying to break the union and make a name for himself.

You can predict the winners. I assure you that the students will lose regardless. Frazee should have held that meeting in an attempt to avert the strike. A smug, contemptible little man.

Justine Travis,
In regards to your reply to SvilleRes you state there are school shooting everyday in this country, can you please provide documentation to support that statement because I'm not finding that information.

Last evening, it appears students came online and asked, "Why are people so mad at the teachers, I don't get it?". I can't speak for a group, and assuming you are students, let me see if I can boil this down:

1.) It is the Union who is calling for a Strike. They brought it to this level.
2.) Strongsville teachers are among the highest compensated in our area, and receive benefits almost unheard of (they don't contribute to their own pension).
3.) The above has been acceptable when times are good, and money isn't an issue.
4.) Times aren't good, and there is no money. Therefore, it is reasonable for the tax payers, who pay their salary to assume considerable concessions will be made. The tax payers in their own lives have been making concessions since 2008.
5.) The Board offered to make their proposal public. For a while, Teachers ranted/raved about wanting to go Public with the Proposals (both sides have to agree to go Public). When the board made the offer, the teachers went silent, thus not allow the Public (ie, those who pay) to have transparency on the process.
6.) The Union has behaved like spoiled brats. Their behavior at the board meetings has been rude. Protesting in someone's front yard is meant to send a message. You don't have the scream at the house..the fact you are there is enough. It means "You can't get away form us". It's in the Union strike playbook.
7.) Teachers have been introducing this topic in the classrooms

In summary, the reason we are where we are, is the teachers fault...100%. The money isn't there to pay them, whether you believe they are worth it (or not). Strongsville HS is ranked 83rd in the State, so I would argue they aren't, but that's a separate topic.

The fact is, kids, your teachers are mostly good...but they are not looking out for you at all in this situation. They are looking out for themselves, which conceptually is okay, but the money isn't there to continue giving them what they want. Whatever concession they tell you they have made in the past (and they have been minimal) simply isn't enough.

They need to give a lot more...they won't...here were are...everyone's life is going to be affected.

Don't mean to speak for the entire group, but that sums up why I am "mad".

As good a summation I've seen yet.

In summary, the board has failed to negotiate - instead they are hellbent to break the union. The teachers have attempted to minimize their losses as opposed to negotiate new gains. Tea Brains fail to recognize this.

The board never offered to show their proposal until the 11th hour. They didn't have the courage to show their original proposal because it was so mean spirited and insulting - an overreach that angered their employees.

Today the two sides aren't that far apart. However, the board canceled a meeting before the strike citing security concerns that have no merit. I can understand maybe that tiny little man board member being concerned for his safety, but Micko and Frazee have some size to them. Frazee can't be so smug and a PUSSY cat too - can he? Because that describes a bully.

Homer, you sound REALLY smart and obviously no one here could argue with your logic or they would risk public humiliation. I'll give it a try though anyway.

1) union chose to strike. It was an active choice during negotiations.
2) minimize their losses? Are you aware that sville teachers pensions are fully funded by taxpayer dollars? Could you explain to all of us "#ussies" exactly why teachers should not have to contribute to their own pensions and why it's acceptable to ask another citizen to not only pay for the teachers retirement (and majority of their healthcare) but their own private retirement and healthcare as well? Are you saying that taxpayers (please don't be stupid enough to say "teachers pay taxes too" here) can't "minimize their losses????
3) who gives a crap if the board offered to show their proposal in the 3rd hour, the 8th hour or 11th hour. They offered. So why is it again the union cannot reciprocate? Bc they are "angry." Hope your rationale is sounding as ridiculous to you now as it does to all of us.
4). You truly are an idiot. Basing the safety of a meeting off whether or not a school board member looks like he could win a fight or not. You are definitely one of those people that should listen to the phrase "think before you speak."

However, with idiots like yourself representing the teachers, we can probably take the day off. Letting you continue to talk will do more good for the other side than all of us could put together.

I think teachers should pay part of their retirement. No doubt.

Duh, only unions can strike. Of course it's their choice. That is how unions sometimes get management to negotiate. The ten day notice of strike yielded immediate movement. It's working.

There is no danger. Pure petty politics. I think going to board members McMansions is moronic too.

If you can't afford your mortgage and tax bills, move.

Lastly, a fish stinks from the head down. We have had some horrible supers and board members. This super is ok bit is virtually gone.

LOUIE...I love your comment, "Teachers deserve to be compensated well because they truly love and work extremely hard at what they do." They are PRESENTLY being compensated very well for what they do, how much do you think they should be compensated? Shouldn't they be happy to have a job at this point with wonderful benefits!! And now they are striking! Unbelievable!! If they are such wonderful and talented teachers, please tell me WHY Strongsville School System is Ranked 83rd? We should be in the TOP 10!

We are in the last days to stop the ranting and bashing of both sides. There is a provision in the labor agreement, ORC 4117.14, for Fact Finding and Binding Arbitration.
Has each side ignored this provision? The ranting and bashing needs to stop. The teachers are wonderful people that taught our kids, the school board has a difficult job to manage the budget, they are both passionate and dedicated to their responsibilities.
It is time to use the process that is designed to resolve this dispute, our kids, our community, and our tax dollars deserve better.
Respectfully submitted to all

Myron-

Just noticed when you posted your blog for the Patch.

Very well written - especially at that time.

How do we access your blogs Myron?

Yes, you should start the "teacher of the day" today.

Lyn : I see you posted something to me yesterday : no, I am not a family member of a teacher. Yes, I very close to a teacher. I'm betting you are also a Strongsville resident as am I. We have some different opinions on this whole thing. That's ok.

Myron : I bet you are not even a resident here. I don't know that many folks in Strongsville wanting to stir up so much trouble. I just hope the whole thing gets settled soon.

ST-
You said "of course I am" when I said you are probably a teacher.
"whatever"
Just confusing.
But, yes we should each be allowed our differing opinions.

I own a McMansion. No envy here, just gratitude for what I have. No jealousy either, ever.

New blog post up. That's it from me today. gotta get some work done to get me a mcmansion. Homer...if true, then i'm happy to hear you are successful and that you are not jealous of others success.

- Teachers work 184 days per year. Average Americans work 240+ days per year.

- The Average teacher in Strongsville earns nearly $74,000 annually. There are numerous teachers earning over

$100k

- Teacher's pay $150 a month for medical premiums for a family. In the real world the average monthly family

premiums are over $500 that usually have large deductibles and numerous co-pays for all treatments.

- Teacher's salaries start at approximately $35,000 annually. There aren't too many other professions where a

fresh-out-of-college person earns more.

- In Strongsville, The taxpayers pay the teacher's portion of their retirement dues which is 10.2% of their

salary. This is in addition to the 16.2% that taxpayers are forced to pay into the (STRS) retirement system.

There are only two other school districts in the state of Ohio where the tax payer picks up the teacher’s

portion.

- Teachers work 7.5 hours a day. Most Americans work 8 or more hours a day. Teachers will complain about the

hours they have to work outside of class grading papers even though the schools give them planning hours during

their normal school hours.

- Taxpayers foot the bill for a teacher's continuing education. After which teachers earn more. If they receive

a master's degree they are guaranteed to earn more.

- Teachers can retire at age 55. Average Americans can retire at age 67 and this is going to rise as time goes

on.

- When teachers retire, they can earn nearly 80% of their highest salary for the rest of their lives with yearly

cost of living adjustments. So, if a teacher retires with a salary of $80,000 at age 55 with 31 years on the

job, they will receive approximately $60,000 a year for the rest of their lives with yearly cola adjustments and

free health care throughout their retirement years and this is not the crappy ObamaCare the rest of us will be

getting, they've been excluded from having to go to the exchanges as the rest of us will have to do soon.

- To compare their retirement income to the rest of us, In order to receive the same annuity payments in the

private sector you would have to have nearly $2 million in a retirement account. If a teacher who retires at age 55 and lives the average life span of 85, he/she will collect over $1.8 million in retirement income not

including cost of living adjustments. And finally where is the transparency? The amount a teacher earns during retirement is not public record. Remember, Teacher's in Strongsville have never had to pay a single dime of

their own money for these benefits since taxpayers are forced to pay an additional 24% of every paycheck a teacher receives into the their retriement fund.

- Teacher's do not pay Social Security tax since they will not be receiving it. For the rest of us 6.2% is taken out of our checks.

- Teachers have the choice to retire at age 55 and then get re-hired. This allows them to double dip where they will receive their usual salary as well as their pension benefits. And since they are retired they do not have to pay for health insurance any further. This is called Retire on Friday - Rehire on Monday. How fair is this for all the teachers graduating from college who can't find a job. The Teachers that are double-dipping are not public record.

- Teachers cannot be fired, unless there is gross misconduct. Even if they are the worst at what they do.

- It's a misleading statement when teacher's claim they have not gotten raises in the last three years. Go to the Strongsville School Board section on the Strongnet.org website. Open the Current Contract, in there you will see the pay schedule teachers receive. Every year a teacher's salary goes up. Also you will notice on the top of the scheudle you see pay increases for continuing education. For every 15 hours of continuing education, teacher's get even more in pay increases. And don't forget, the taxpayer pays for their continuing education.

- Teachers also have over 100 other ways to earn even more by volunteering as coaches or leaders of extra-curicular activities.

It makes me sick to my stomach to see these greedy teachers who should be thankful for the fortunes they already have instead of threatening to strike.

When levies are placed on ballots, teachers claim "it's for the kids" when in fact nearly 90% of all money collected from levies go to teacher's salaries and benefits. When levies don't pass they cut the things that hurt the public the most like bussing and sports which is less than 5% of the budget. If we allow these teachers to strong arm us in these negotiations we will all have to pay for it later in future levies that will most certainly be needed to keep these money hungry hypocrites paid.

I would love to work 9 months out of the year with summers off. I would love to only pay $150 for family insurance. I would love to be able to retire at age 55 and receive $60,000 a year and have free health care. I would love if my company would pay for my education and guarantee me more salary when I pass. I would love that no matter how bad I do my job my company cannot fire me.

Teachers should be thankful for what they already have. In fact, they should give up some of these perks since they do not align with the real world.

We the taxpayers are watching this school board closely. I like that they are not immediately caving to the teachers union's demands but they must stand strong in order to get my vote in the future. There may be too many conflicts of interests because many of the school board members are retired teachers, work in the education field and or have family members that work as educators.

If the teachers strike, they should all be fired and replaced like Regan did to the Air Traffic Controllers i 1980. There are plenty of qualified teachers out there that can easily replace them.

Maybe that way they can collect unemployment - get fired, no unemployment.

Jennie- Perfectly stated w numbers to back up the outrageousness of just how good the teachers have it. Well done!

Jennie, in all honesty...you should write up a blog post about the reality of teachers claims and their true benefits. Real v fiction

Not taking sides, but what is this showing others about the community and the school system. To read everyone bashing one another with there comments. I my eyes it is showing future residents what the community is like and they may not want to move here.?? Also what does it show future businesses who would want to move here.?? I just believe that is way to much basing going on. It is now starting to move to the parents.

Great more greed union head teachers need more for a job that still pays well and.you still get a summer vacation just like the kids i guess the teachers who parade outside peoples family homes must have never grown up. Anyone wants.to know.you can.easily find any teachers income ill post the sites. Trust me they are not suffering even the easier lower grades still make very good money. Buget cuts are just that things have to give and teachers low life union leaders tend.to.forget that after all they get free money for.playing games with tax payer money. Sad.

Justine,

Get back to work...those cell phones aren't going to sell themselves at your mall kiosk.

I put this on the other thread but I love it so much i'm posting it here too http://qkme.me/3t7gw1

Hey...after you guys lose your jobs, can you list your Arts and Crafts sign/shirt making kits, glittery teddy bear sweatshirts and 55 gal "strike" fire barrel/firewood on eBay?

Why are they not happy that have jobs with good and some great salaries? In this economy they should be thankful they haven't lost their jobs and that their homes are not in foreclosure. The economy has touched these people the least. They need to realize - THE WELL IS DRY!!!! I cannot afford their outrageous fees or illegally charged $60 per student 'instructional' fee - but I pull it out of my butt like many other people. They need to get over themselves and rocketship back to planet earth.

As a taxpaying citizen who the teachers work for, all I can say is "you're fired"
goodbye you greedy union thugs

LAST BEST OFFER
http://www.strongnet.org/cms/lib6/OH01000884/Centricity/Domain/1/BOE.LastBestOffer.2013-03-02.pdf

Regarding last best offer, I've had teachers contact me from other school districts who said they'd only dream about having such an offer. Enough said.

Hey Teachers. I've withheld any comment until I saw the proposals. I just reviewed them. JOIN THE REAL WORLD !!!!!!!!!! Love the disiplinary policy. FIVE STRIKES AND YOUR OUT MAYBE.

Never would I have imagined the day I would see "EDUCATORS" screaming at "EDUCATORS" and calling them scabs. I saw a teacher with a sign that read "your excellent student is due to an excellent teacher". Strange, I felt my excellent student was due to a good job of parenting. But what do I know?