Battle over teacher contracts in Mount Vernon reaches boiling point
Mount Vernon teachers say they have been fighting for new contracts with fair wages for more than two years.
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Frustrations are at a boiling point in Mount Vernon over a battle for teacher contracts.
At a school board meeting on Tuesday night, parents and teachers demanded an end to the ongoing dispute.
MORE: Mount Vernon teachers not backing down on demands amidst ongoing contract negotiations
Mount Vernon teachers say they have been fighting for new contracts with fair wages for more than two years. They also claim it's been three years since they last received a raise.
Over the last several weeks, teachers and union officials across the district have been staging rallies and attending every school board meeting in full force.
Last night's meeting was moved to a larger venue at Graham Elementary School due to the high attendance, which included many parents.
The parents expressed their frustration, particularly out of concern that students are being caught in the middle of the dispute. Many parents support the teachers' union demands. "They should be able to get that raise, they got to take care of their homes, their children, pay taxes," said Michelle, a Mount Vernon parent.
As the end of the school year approaches, contract negotiations are ongoing. Meanwhile, teachers vow to continue their fight. Sources tell News 12 the next meeting to try and hammer out an agreement is scheduled for June 13.
