Strike Update: School Board Launches Web Page

The Strongsville Board of Education, which on Wednesday declared that a teachers' strike appears inevitable, has launched a web page called Negotiation News on the school district's website.

The page includes a statement from the board and a link to the state treasurer's online "transparency project" that lists all teachers' salaries. 

For Strongsville teachers, the school board advises residents to add an extra 10.3 percent to the salary figure for benefits. 

It also has a Q&A page that answers some of the questions parents are asking about the potential strike, which will start Monday, March 4 unless a contract settlement is reached.

The last scheduled negotiating session is set for Saturday morning.

The items on the Q&A page include background checks for substitute teachers, whether bus drivers and cafeteria workers will be on the job and how the district can be ready in time.

A few examples:

• The security officers being brought in during the strike will not be armed, but some will videotape picketing teachers to document any problems. 

• Extracurriculars and sports may be suspended during the strike.

• Students are required to attend school during the strike.

• Teachers will receive no salary during the strike, and benefits will be suspended.

• Nearly 250 potential substitute teachers have already been identified.

Other Strike News

Teachers have asked Superintendent John Krupinski to stop including them in his "Positive Thought for the Week" emails.

Strongsville Education Association President Tracy Linscott replied to Krupinski's message, which included an inspirational quote by Helen Keller and which he sent to all school personnel on Tuesday morning, with this email:

"In light of our current situation, and at the request of our members, we are asking that you refrain from including us in these positive thought messages.  Actions speak louder than words. Save it for the 383 highly qualified SCABS that will be taking over our jobs."