Albany Teachers Strike Enters Third Week with Students and Parents Rallying

In Albany, Oregon, the community is rallying around teachers as the strike enters its third week. Hundreds of parents and students showed their support in a rally over the weekend, with mediation ongoing to resolve the strike, the first of its kind in over 40 years. The school district has already canceled two school days next week, but there’s a glimmer of hope as progress has been made in key areas.

Late Friday evening, the union announced a tentative agreement with the district on prep time, professional development, and health and safety policies. Despite this progress, tensions remain high as accusations fly between the union and the school board.

The rally on Saturday was organized by Strong Albany SchoolS (SASS), a parent-led grassroots organization that believes teachers are fighting for the future of their children. According to Kat Martinez, a parent and organizer of the rally, the strike is essential to ensure that students in Albany receive the support they need and deserve compared to other districts in the state.

The teachers’ union has accused the district of pressuring parents regarding support for Individual Education Plans (IEP) and holding secretive meetings without teacher involvement. In response, the union has demanded the resignation of the school board. Superintendent Andy Gardner defended the board, emphasizing their commitment to addressing teacher pay increases and addressing any complaints raised.

As the strike continues and the community stands divided, the fate of Albany’s education system hangs in the balance. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.