Final Talks Break Down, Ambridge Area School District Teachers To Go On Strike
AMBRIDGE (KDKA) -- A last-ditch marathon negotiation session between Ambridge Area School District and a teacher's union took place behind auditorium doors Monday, 190 teachers threatening to strike if a deal wasn't reached by midnight.
Around 9:15 p.m., it was announced that negotiations had broken down and that teachers would be on strike Tuesday.
"The union did not rescind their strike letter, the District made a best and final offer, and the District asked that the offer be taken to the full membership of the union, and the union refused to present the offer to the teachers," an anonymous board member said.
The teacher's union told reporters that they would release a statement on Tuesday.
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The school district wants the teachers to pay more for healthcare and transition to a percentage-based pay system.
"I think it's fair, I think everything the teachers get is fair. I think if they do get more money, around here they really can't raise taxes anymore, it's pretty much maxed out for everyone around here," said Stephen Kosela.
In a statement on the District's website, the acting superintendent writes, in part, "We understand that many students, parents, caregivers and even teachers are frustrated and confused about why this negotiating impasse occurred. The District is preparing comparative statistics regarding wages, healthcare benefits and other key issues that are in dispute. We will remain collaborative, yet resolute in our effort to be responsible stewards of District taxpayer dollars."
Teachers are expected to be on the picket line at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.
This is a developing story, stay with KDKA and KDKA.com for more information.
