Thursday, October 5th, the McKeesport Area teacher’s union voted unanimously to strike. This decision was made after the school board voted down a contract that was originally agreed upon by both sides. If the contract had been agreed on, it would mean a 3%-6.5% raise over the next five years.

The school board and staff have made it clear they do not wish to have a teacher strike. The school district has hired an independent auditor in order to ensure their finances are sound. Additionally, district superintendent Dr. Tia Wanzo has stated they are hopeful to come to an agreement.

McKeesport teacher’s union is not a force to be reckoned with. However, Union President Gerald McGrew has said if there is no agreement by the next school board meeting, he would like to see a strike soon after.

The McKeesport school board will meet again on October 25th. If no agreement can be reached at that time, the teacher’s union must give 48 hours of notice before they can strike. Just a little more than a month into the school year, the future fate of the McKeesport school district remains unknown.