Newton Parents Seek to Resolve Teachers’ Strike as Classes Cancelled Tuesday – News Update

Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Newton Parent Files Emergency Motion to End Ongoing Teachers’ Strike

Newton, MA – Lital Asher-Dotan, a concerned parent from Newton, has taken legal action to halt the ongoing teachers’ strike in the city. Filing an emergency motion to intervene in Middlesex Superior Court, Asher-Dotan argues that the strike is negatively impacting her children’s education and well-being, particularly for her child with an individualized education program (IEP).

According to Asher-Dotan, the strike’s disruption of structured learning and continuity is impeding her children’s progress and potentially jeopardizing her child’s chances of college acceptance. She further emphasizes the emotional toll the strike has taken on her children, especially due to shortened athletic seasons. With both her and her husband working full-time, the parents are unable to adequately supervise their children during this turbulent time.

Responding to the motion, the Newton Teachers Association (NTA) contends that the family seeking intervention has no legal standing since private citizens cannot seek injunctive relief in a public sector strike. The NTA asserts that their goal is to reopen schools and provide necessary support for students. They also argue that current wages are insufficient to attract qualified individuals for support positions, including aides and behavior therapists. The NTA underlines the importance of access to social workers for the mental health of students and expresses concern for the well-being of educators.

As the strike enters its eighth day, schools in Newton remain closed, marking the longest school strike in recent memory. The NTA now faces fines of $425,000, with the potential for further fines if an agreement is not reached.

Amidst the ongoing strike, teachers gathered outside city hall to rally for a fair contract and express their commitment to staying out until their demands are met. The strike has received mixed reactions from the community, with some high school students expressing support for the teachers while others voice concerns about the impact on education and college preparation.

In a surprising turn of events, the Chairman of the state Republican Party has called for Governor Maura Healey to intervene and encourage teachers to return to the classroom. Meanwhile, negotiations between the NTA and school administrators have made progress, but a $20 million gap still exists between the two sides, raising the possibility of teacher, police, and fire layoffs.

Although teacher strikes are currently illegal in the state, legislation is being considered to change this. However, it is unlikely that the bill will receive a vote by Wednesday, according to State House News.

As the situation continues to develop, further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.