The Anoka-Hennepin Schools negotiation team is set to meet with union leaders for another mediation session as the state’s largest school district braces for a potential teacher strike. Families are being advised to prepare for this possibility, with the first possible strike date looming on Thursday, January 8.
Alison Kacer, a mother of two students within the district, expressed her concerns about how a strike could impact her son, Lucas, who is on the autism spectrum. She emphasized the necessity of maintaining routine and support for him, noting that being out of school would disrupt the progress he makes with his teachers and peers. “Not being in school, seeing his teachers, working on his skills would impact him greatly,” Kacer said. She is preparing for the possibility of needing to engage her son with various activities to help him cope.
The ongoing contract negotiations highlight significant issues, particularly regarding escalating health insurance costs and employee salaries. Anoka Hennepin Education Minnesota (AHEM) criticized the district for asking educators to shoulder these rising costs while also stifling meaningful salary growth. AHEM President John Wolhaupter stated that the current proposals could effectively reduce the pay of educators who are simply trying to maintain their health insurance.
On its part, the Anoka-Hennepin district acknowledged the challenges posed by tight budget constraints. They are committed to enhancing salaries and benefits for staff but cited recent budget cuts totaling $22.2 million as a complicating factor. Additionally, new mandates from the state, such as Minnesota Paid Leave, have placed further pressure on the district’s financial planning.
Despite the ongoing negotiations and looming strike, Kacer remains supportive of the teachers and acknowledges their vital role in the education system. “Teachers are near and dear to my heart. They’re the ones who are doing the work in the school. And although a strike would not be good for our family… I fully support what they’re working for and what they need to be excellent educators,” she shared.
As discussions continue, both the district and the union are striving for a resolution that can benefit educators while advancing the quality of education for students in the Anoka-Hennepin Schools.