By Jennifer Hiller
Advertiser Staff Writer
The Hawai‘i public schoolteachers union is still talking informally with state negotiators, but says its big priority is promoting its March 14 strike vote.
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| Joan Husted said teacher shortage is happening now.
Advertiser library photo • Feb. 20, 1997 |
Union workers are encouraging teachers to cast ballots and are polishing their public relations by speaking to community groups.
"A lot of people are not aware of how serious this teacher shortage is," said Joan Husted, executive director of the Hawai‘i State Teachers Association.
"This is not something that is going to happen; it’s something that is happening now."
The union and the state are nearing the end of a 60-day cooling-off period. Both rejected a fact-finding report that recommended a 19 percent raise for teachers.
Teachers want a 22 percent pay increase over four years. The union rejected the fact-finding report because it did not give an equal raise to more experienced teachers. Teachers earn between $29,000 and $58,000.
The state has offered about 9 percent over four years. Davis Yogi, the governor’s chief negotiator, is working on a new proposal, which may be about 11 percent.
"We’re trying to find a solution," Yogi said. "I just met with the Department of Education. We’re trying to bring everyone on the same page."
Meanwhile, the union can call a strike vote during the cooling-off period, although teachers cannot walk off the job until the 60 days elapse on March 17. The teachers union must give a 10-day notice of intent to strike.
Teachers have been without a contract since January 1999.
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