Franklin County Judge to Consider ‘Sanctions’ Against Teachers, Union

Superior Court Judge Alex Ekstrom is considering what to do next after Pasco teachers refused to honor his injunction to return to work Tuesday.

Ekstrom is said to be considering options, including possible sanctions against the union, over their voting almost unanimously to continue their strike.

Ekstrom ruled in favor of a Pasco School District request to grant an injunction last week forcing the teachers to return to work Tuesday, but they refused. They have vowed to continue the week-long strike effort.

Ekstrom didn't elaborate about fines that might be levied against the union, but did say he might levy the sanctions if his order is not obeyed.

Pasco teachers and the union were not satisfied with the latest district proposal, which would give teachers a 10% raise over the next three years, including 3.5% this year.