Come Monday, Columbus City Schools students should be back in their classrooms.
After a marathon bargaining session between the Columbus Board of Education and the Columbus Education Association that began Wednesday afternoon and lasted into the wee hours of Thursday morning, the two parties have reached a conceptual agreement to end the teachers’ strike which began on Monday.
“At 2:38 a.m. this morning, the bargaining team reached a conceptual agreement,” a video on CEA’s Facebook page shared. “We are very excited to bring this to our membership for ratification. Thank you everybody for coming out and supporting us on our picket.”
The post instructed teachers not to report this morning to one of the 20 picket sites where supporters had been gathering.
“The last few months have been devoted to finding resolution and a strong plan forward with the Columbus Education Association (CEA) in shared support of our children,” a statement released by Board President Jennifer Adair said. “Tonight, we are happy to report that we have reached a conceptual agreement with CEA leaders, and our children will return to in-person instruction on Monday. While the details cannot yet be disclosed, the contract recognizes the Board’s commitment to improving our student outcomes, the essential work of the CEA members, and strengthening our learning environments.”
CCS began the 2022-2023 school year yesterday via remote learning. Online learning for students will continue through Friday, August 26.
“Teachers will have those two days for planning to prepare for a return to school on Monday,” a note from the Board said. “Columbus City Schools will return to full-time, in-person learning in school buildings this Monday, August 29.”
Columbus City Council also issued a statement regarding the agreement.
“We are thankful that CEA and CCS leadership reached a conceptual agreement,” it read. “We hope this deal truly works for teachers, students, parents, and the district. Today, we join families in their excitement to see students return to the classroom Monday.”
For more information, visit ceaohio.org and ccsoh.us.
