The Amherst Teachers Association and the Amherst Exempted Village School District Board of Education reached a tentative agreement at 11 p.m. Oct. 10 following a rally for resolution with the community.
“The Amherst Board of Education and the Amherst Teachers Association are happy to announce that we have reached a tentative agreement on all outstanding issues for a new, three-year labor contract,” announced the Board of Education and Amherst Teachers Association shortly after a tentative agreement was reached. “Although the specific details will not be disclosed until after ratification and adoption by the parties, we believe that this agreement is fair and benefits all of our district stakeholders.”
During negotiations Oct. 10, members of the community joined the Amherst Teachers Association outside Marion L. Steele High School for a “Rally for a Resolution” event.
“We gathered for this rally today, because we wanted to have the community together and have some fun,” said Emily Marty, spokesperson for the Amherst Teachers Association and an educator. “We have seen a huge outpouring of support from the community throughout this, and we wanted to give back to them through an event like this to show our appreciation.”
Over 300 people descended upon Steele High parking lot, including teacher supporters from Sandusky, Lorain, Cleveland and Elyria.
Additionally, two Girl Scout troops chose to hold their meetings at the rally.
“We are really surprised and excited to hear that two Girl Scout troops came out to hold their meetings here today,” Marty said. “According to them, they are working on their leadership badge and wanted to showcase us as an example of good leadership.”
But the announcement of a tentative agreement is important to more than just the Amherst teachers, she said.
“We have everybody watching us, other districts whose contracts are going to expire; they’re watching us and seeing how we handle this and how it all plays out,” Marty said. “We hope that our leadership will be an inspiration for them.”
As families came together in support of the teachers and the board, there appeared to be excitement from students both current and former, in seeing their teachers.
“It feels great to be able to be out here and see everyone together,” said a teacher who asked not to be named. “It is amazing to hear the kids excitement and it is great for us to be able to connect with former students.”
A group of alumni even made their way up from Ohio State University to partake in the festivities.
And the work paid off.
“I want to thank each and every one of you for your support; it has not gone unnoticed,” said Mike Edwards, an educator and union member. “We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the posts, the love, and everything you’ve done, but we especially thank you for allowing us to educate your children because that’s what we love doing the most.”
The Board and the Amherst Teachers Association are expected to ratify this new tentative agreement and contract within the following weeks, with a new contract set in place as early as mid-November.
Representatives from the leadership of both parties expressed their belief that this resolution will continue to move the district into a positive direction and time continues.
