Shabby use of students in labor disputes is typical in teacher union disputes. Like child soldiers in Africa. Or Pol Pot troops.
June 7, 1007 -
"It's a matter of survival," junior class President Vivian Wong told the school board. "The teachers simply can't survive on what this district is paying them."Students protested the loss of several teachers who are leaving the district for better pay and benefits. Reporter describes them as "angry" as they protested, chanting and hoisting signs.
At issue is the fact that the teachers union voted to take a pay raise in lieu of medical benefits years ago. The district now covers teacher dental and vision plans "but bargains money for medical benefits as part of the salary." (Annual negotiations for medical benefits.) Now the teachers want both -- the medical benefits and the salary. The teachers have announced that they won't be returning in their classes. The contract expires at the end of June.
Salary figures 2004-2005 (last contract) from the school district website for Northgate High School.
School Accountability Report Card. Reported for School Year 2005-06 Published During 2006-07
Beginning Teacher Salary
$39,693 District Amount
$37,540 State Avg. Districts same category
Mid-Range Teacher Salary
$55,400 District Amount
$59,426 State Avg. District same category
Highest Teacher Salary
$70,206 District Amount
$73,925 State Avg. Districts same category
TT - How old is a junior at a high school? Sixteen? Fifteen?
