Strongsville Parents Launch Online Petition Against Teachers' Strike

An unidentified parent has launched an online petition that urges striking Strongsville teachers to return to the classroom as they continue to negotiate a new contract.

"Concerned parents feel that they have no voice because of the threat of retaliation," the petition says. "The teachers have already demonstrated verbally abusive behavior in public settings, and fears of grading and guidance ramifications for the students of those who speak out -- misplaced or not -- exists in many parents' minds."

The petition offers an anonymous way "to politely ask the Strongsville Education Association to return to work NOW! Let's ask them to settle their contract with a sense of responsibility toward their community!"

The petition can be accessed here.

Dave Potter, a parent of three children in the Strongsville schools, did not start the drive, but has helped spread the word since learning about it.

"I think it's a good, neutral piece," Potter said.

He said he believes some parents aren't speaking against the strike because they fear their children will face retaliation, but said teachers are sending a message to kids that it's okay to leave your post. 

"No child left behind?" he said. "They've left every child behind."

Related stories:

Teachers' Strike Day 1: Picket Lines in Strongsville

Strongsville Teachers Vote to Strike

A Few Teachers Cross Picket Line; One Teacher Says She was Hit By Car

No New Talks Set in Teachers' Strike; Sides Still Far Apart

Second Striking Teacher is Charged

Strongsville Teachers Shout at Subs as They Apply to Replace Them

Strongsville Teachers Won't Honor Subs' Grades During Strike

School Board Files Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against Teachers' Union

Teachers' Union Criticizes School Board for Truancy Policy

200 Subs Now in Strongsville Schools

Picketer Arrested for Blocking Driveway

Strongsville AP Students Aren't Letting Strike Stop Their Learning

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