Cheney teachers say they will strike next week after failed collective bargaining negotiations [Video]

CHENEY, Wash. – The Cheney Education Association announced a planned strike on the first school day of the academic year after failed collective bargaining negotiations with the Cheney School District.

According to the education association, 96% of the union’s members voted to approve a strike starting next Tuesday.

“The district is just moving money around at the bargaining table, without offering any real adjustments to compensation,” union president Meridith Lemelin said.

The current contract between the district and teachers is set to expire Aug. 31. While the school district has said it is committed to negotiating a new contract , Cheney educators for eastern Washington.

“We need to focus on what’s best for kids, which is well-funded classrooms with competitive pay to keep our great teachers,” middle school teacher Katherine Potter said.

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