The RTPA announced today that they have permission from the majority of the teachers to strike. Voting took place between Whitney teachers at lunch Oct. 26-27 as well as at other district sites, reaching an approval of a teacher strike.

“The bottom line is that a strike is the LAST thing anyone wants. A strike means students lose classroom time with teachers, while teachers lose time instructing students and planning curriculum. As a member of the bargaining team, my hope is that we can work with the district over the course of the next month to come to a fair and competitive settlement,” bargaining team member Mrs. Emily Thomas said.

Bargaining meetings will continue Nov. 1, Nov. 8, and Nov. 14 with a state-appointed mediator present.

Students and parents are encouraged to attend each school board meeting as a way to express opinions on the ongoing negotiations process.

Whitney High Student Media will continue to provide updates as negotiations continue.