School District Strike Coming to Kennewick? Vote Happens Jan. 17
Negotiations, say sources, have been going on for months. But unlike the 'regular' teachers represented by the WEA (Washington Education Association) these Kennewick school workers may end up on strike.
Para-educators, cashiers and licensed practical nurses (LPN's) who work for the District say they're prepared to go on strike, pending the outcome of efforts to solve pay issues. LPN's fill the role of school nurses.
Some 600 such workers who fill support positions throughout the district are members of and represented by the Public Schools Employees of Washington Union, which is part of SEIU--Service Employees International Union.
According to a local union spokesperson, the District's final offer does not represent a "livable wage." A vote is expected Tuesday evening January 17th, unless an 11th hour solution is reached.
The reason for the negotiations is from a $2 billion dollar fund made available by the state legislature designed to go towards educator's salaries, from the last legislative session. No official word if negotiations are scheduled through the next four days.