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Millville Area Teachers May Strike This Week

MILLVILLE — For the nearly 700 students at the Millville Area School District, summer might be a little longer this year. That’s because the distric...

MILLVILLE -- For the nearly 700 students at the Millville Area School District, summer might be a little longer this year.

That's because the district and its teachers have failed to agree on a contract. It's an issue that the school and district officials have been dealing with for more than two years.

"We want to ensure that the Millville Area School District will survive and thrive moving forward but the school board continues to propose items that take the district backwards not forward," PSEA Representative, Mark McDade said.

McDade represents the teachers through the Pennsylvania State Education Association.

He said the district hasn't given its 62 teachers a raise in more than two years.

Along with that, he added teachers are also struggling with the increase in healthcare costs.

They are also seeking more incentives within professional development.

The school district on the other hand says they're trying to find a solution that everyone can agree on.

Benjamin Pratt, the attorney representing the school district, said that the district has been bargaining for a new contract since January 2012.

He stated it's unfortunate that the teachers union decided to take this action, and they feel that the offer they have on the table is fair and reasonable.

Pratt said the district hopes to have a contract that does not pose a financial burden to the community.

Kids, on the other hand, say they're ready to go back to school, and they want to go back to school on time.

"I'd like to play soccer, so I really don't want the strike to go on because sports might not be able to be played," one student said.

"I think that it's important that the teachers get the proper recognition that they need and that an agreement is come to," 11th grade student, Hayley Reichner said.

The school district and teachers union will hold a last minute negotiation meeting on Tuesday to try and get a contract finalized.

If they cannot agree on a contract, teachers will strike on Wednesday.

 

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