Akron Teachers Union Files Fourth Unfair Labor Practice Charge this Year
Source: https://www.msn.com/
Akron Public Schools (APS) is facing its fourth unfair labor practice charge from the Akron Education Association (AEA) in less than a year. This charge, filed with the State Labor Relations Board, concerns the district’s decision to hire a new social worker for the APS Online program, an online school for grades 6-12.
The APS Board of Education approved the creation of this new position in July, and despite the union’s objections, voted to fill the role last week. The decision led to tension during a board meeting, where Treasurer Steve Thompson was criticized by a senior administrator. APS responded by calling the union’s charge “baseless” and accusing them of obstructing the district’s ability to provide necessary support for students, framing the issue as one of management rights.
The social worker position, funded by a $120,000 grant, is a one-year, grant-supported role with a salary of $59,796.64. The position’s creation and approval by the school board have sparked confusion, as board members debated whether the position’s funding source influenced its non-union status. The AEA filed a grievance in July after learning about the position, but APS denied it, with the administration claiming the issue was unrelated to the grievance. The board approved the position in a 4-2 vote, with two members voting against it and the union continuing to challenge the move as part of a broader pattern of undermining union jobs with non-union positions.
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