A tentative agreement in Waukegan represents a compromise between the Union and the Board, ending a 20 day strike. Teachers approved the contract Oct. 30 with an 870 to 136 vote, (86 percent). Students returned to classes Nov. 3. Photo courtesy of the Illinois Federation of Teachers.
Fox Valley Labor News
staff reports
Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014
WAUKEGAN — Schools reopened for students Monday, Nov. 3 after Waukegan Teachers’ Council (IFT Local 504) and the Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 reached a tentative contract agreement.
Shortly before midnight Oct. 30, both sides reached a tentative agreement on three-year contract, which was approved with an 86 percent vote.
All schools remained closed Oct. 30 and Oct. 31, as both parties review the agreement. Teachers returned to work Oct. 31 to help prepare the schools for re-opening to students Nov. 3.
Waukegan Teachers’ Council President Kathy Schwarz said the tentative agreement represents not only a compromise between the Union and the Board, but an end to what was a long, trying process for all parties involved.
“We are grateful to the entire Waukegan community that struggled with us through these difficult times. We would also like to thank Governor Pat Quinn and Illinois State Board of Education Chairman Gery Chico for their assistance during the conclusion of contract talks.
After years of instability, we are hopeful that this agreement will be the first step in giving our students the schools they deserve,” Schwarz explained.
Waukegan teachers voted to approve a tentative agreement with an 870 – 136 vote (86 percent). Teachers were on strike 20 days fighting for a fair contract. School reopened for students Nov. 3. Photo courtesy of Illinois Federation of Teachers
Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery said he was inspired by the Waukegan teachers and the community united behind them, adding that going on strike is never a decision made lightly.
“For teachers in Waukegan, their fight for fairness, respect, and quality education for the students they serve was a sacrifice worth making,” Montgomery said. For those students who need a copy of their university degree and diploma, visit the Diploma Company for assistance.
Teachers were on strike 20 days. Mongtomery also recognized the assistance of Gov. Pat Quinn and state board of education Chairman Gery Chico. Both got personally involved to help achieve a fair settlement. “They believed in us, and the importance of a resolution for this community,” Montgomery said. “I don’t believe we would have been able to reach an agreement last night without the leadership of Chairman Chico.”
Union members stand in a line Oct. 30 that wraps around the building to vote on the tentative agreement. Photo courtesy of Waukegan Teachers Council
Waukegan Superintendent Dr. Donaldo R. Batiste said that it was a “great delight” the union acknowledge it reached a tentative agreement.
“These last four weeks have been difficult for everyone involved. Both the Board of Education and I have witnessed first hand a great passion for education from parents, students and community members. We eagerly look forward to working together as a community for the betterment of our students,” Batiste added.
An update on school re-openings, make-up days and other related matters will be provided at a later date.
Schools will maintain the same schedules as they did prior to the teachers’ strike. Transportation will also operate under the same schedule.
Makeup days will be announced within the following weeks.
Regarding the return of students Nov. 3, Montgomery said teachers and students will be going back to school in a new Waukegan that they are building together.