10/2/2014: Union and district leadership reach impasse on new contract, no plans set for more negotiations. NBC 5’s Christian Farr reports.
Nearly 17,000 Waukegan students may have to get used to days off from school if things don't drastically change in the contract stalemate between striking teachers and the school district.
More than 1,200 teachers went on strike Thursday to protest low wages. The Lake County Federation of Teachers and Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 have been negotiating for months.
"I think the administration and board has to know that we are serious about what we are saying, and that we expect to have equal pay with other people in Lake County," Waukegan High School teacher Jeanne Larocca said.
No negotiations were held Thursday, nor were planned for Friday. Union officials say they're willing to negotiate over the weekend, but district officials say they are waiting to receive a reasonable proposal before proceeding.
The union claims teachers in Waukegan are some of the lowest paid in comparison to other teachers in Lake County. They're seeking a three-year contract, which includes a 9 percent raise in the first year and 7 percent for the next two years, along with no changes to their healthcare.
"They've offered a 1 percent, we've started with a 9 percent, so as negotiations progress, we usually come to the middle. We are not there yet because they are refusing to move off that 1 percent," Waukegan Teacher's Council president Kathy Schwarz said.
The school district proposal offers a two-year contract with a little more than a 1-1/2 percent raise in the first year and a modest contribution to healthcare plans. Union officials say the union also wants to shorten the school year.
"They want three days less to teach students, yet they are seeking a 9 percent increase. The public should be aware of that," Waukegan School District 60 attorney Tony Ficarelli said.
The union sent picketers to the approximately 25 school campuses on Thursday. Waukegan East High is serving as the strike headquarters for the teachers.
The Waukegan Park District will offer childcare from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday for $30 a day. The Boys and Girls Club and Waukegan Public Library are also offering programming for members. Parents can contact those organizations for further information.
In a Thursday morning statement posted to the district website, Supt. Donaldo R. Batiste said school board members were committed to reaching a resolution that "benefits both parties, while still maintaining long-term financial stability for the educational programs of the District."
Waukegan teachers last went on strike 30 years ago.
