ITHACA, N.Y. — Ithaca teachers have planned a rally for support at Belle Sherman Elementary School as part of continued advocacy for better contract negotiations.
[do_widget id= text-55 ]
Teachers have been negotiating or mediating with the Ithaca City School District officials for a contract — which they have worked without an updated version of all academic year — with better wages, improved benefits, and more opportunities for professional development.
In a statement from the Ithaca Teachers Association released this fall, organization president Adam Piasecki said, “Having equitable and competitive salaries and benefits are what help attract and retain top-quality educators… Teachers in Ithaca, on average, make less than teachers in 89% of other New York State small city school districts.”
Related — Ithaca teachers organize rally; demand better wages, benefits
He said in an email Friday, ” I have to be clear. I did not set up anything at any schools. Teachers at individual schools are doing certain things regarding the situation.”
It’s not the first time teachers have rallied for their contracts.
On November 23, hundreds of people gathered on South Meadow Street for a solidarity walk in support of the Ithaca City School District teachers after reaching an impasse during negotiations.
Related — Hundreds rally to support Ithaca teachers in dispute with school district
Friday’s rally is happening at 2 p.m. at Belle Sherman Elementary School, located at 501 Mitchell Street.
Reporter Michael Smith contributed to this story.
[do_widget id= text-61 ]