Support staff in the Springfield school district have formally announced their intention to strike on January 7. The decision, revealed Tuesday by the Ohio Association of Public-School Employees Local 478, follows what union representatives describe as a breakdown in contract negotiations with the district's administration.
Key Takeaways
- Springfield schools' support staff union plans to strike on January 7.
- Negotiations have stalled over disagreements on healthcare costs and wages.
- The union represents 94 employees, including aides, custodians, and transportation staff.
- The school board has presented a "last and best offer," giving the union seven days to respond.
Stalled Negotiations Lead to Strike Notice
The union, representing 94 support professionals, stated that months of negotiations have failed to produce a fair agreement. The group includes educational aides, custodial staff, food service workers, and transportation employees who are critical to the daily operations of Springfield schools.
Chris Griffith, a Field Representative for the Ohio Association of Public-School Employees (OAPSE), explained the union's position. He said the district has not engaged in meaningful discussions at the bargaining table despite repeated requests from the union.
"Despite repeated requests by OAPSE Local 478 to continue negotiations, Springfield local schools administration has failed to meaningfully engage at the bargaining table," Griffith stated.
In response, the Springfield Board of Education held a special meeting on Tuesday morning. In a 4-0 vote, the board approved the terms of a final offer to be presented to the union. The details of this offer have not been made public.
Dispute Centers on Wages and Healthcare
The core of the disagreement lies in proposed changes to employee compensation and benefits. According to the union, the district's proposals would shift a significant financial burden onto its members, many of whom are among the lowest-paid employees in the district.
By the Numbers
- Average Salary: Union members earn an average of $19,000 per year.
- Proposed Premium Share: The district wants to increase the employee share of health insurance premiums from nearly 26% to 30%.
- Wage Offer: The district has offered a 3% pay increase, but for the current year only.
The Union's Financial Concerns
Union officials argue that the proposed 3% wage increase is insufficient to offset the hike in healthcare costs. Griffith detailed the financial impact on his members, stating the raise "won’t come close to paying for what our members will lose on their health care."
He added that the district's plan would also reduce employer contributions to health savings accounts, further increasing out-of-pocket expenses for employees.
"Our folks make about $19,000 on average per year. They will be losing money on the deal," Griffith explained. "They can’t afford to do this with the economy the way it is." He described the proposed increase in insurance premiums as "one big kick in the pants."
The District's Position
Superintendent Matt Geha acknowledged that negotiations had stalled, prompting the special board meeting. He pointed to financial pressures on the district, citing recent cuts to the state budget that have reduced the school system's income.
District's Next Steps
Following the board's vote, Superintendent Geha confirmed the final offer would be sent to the union. "Everything the board decided on will be sent to union reps, and they will have seven days to act or not act on what they are being given," he said. The district plans to release details of its proposal after that seven-day period concludes.
A Path Forward Remains Unclear
With the strike date set for January 7, both sides appear to be at an impasse. The union insists it is ready to resume talks immediately to avoid a work stoppage.
"Our members want to be at work supporting students and schools," Griffith said in a statement. "However, the district’s refusal to meet and negotiate leaves us with no other option. We cannot accept proposals that place an unfair financial burden on support staff."
The union's official release reiterated this sentiment, stating, "OAPSE Local 478 remains ready and willing to return to the bargaining table immediately and urges the district to engage in meaningful negotiations to reach a fair agreement."
For now, the community must wait to see if the district's final offer is enough to avert a strike that could impact school operations in the new year.