Catholic elementary school teachers took their fight for a better contract straight to the New York Archdiocese headquarters in Manhattan Thursday.

Members of the Federation of Catholic Teachers protested for higher wages and affordable health care. The union represents 3,400 teachers who work primarily at elementary and junior high schools, including some in Westchester and Hudson Valley. Union President Mary Anne Perry says teachers are angry that they have been working without a contract since September.

"It's unreasonable to expect educated professionals to work for an average of $45,000 a year and then ask them to contribute to their health care," says Perry.

Perry says the archdiocese gave the union a final offer in November and has refused to negotiate since. She hopes that no more protests will be necessary, but says union members are considering a demonstration during the pope's visit in April.