COLUMBUS, Ohio-The Columbus Education Association (CEA), representing teachers and substitute teachers at Columbus City Schools, has filed a lawsuit against the district. The union alleges that the district violated state law by not renewing contracts for 28 building substitutes within the required timeframe outlined in bargaining agreements. The lawsuit seeks a court judgment mandating the district to issue one-year contracts to these substitutes and compensate them for lost wages and benefits. Columbus City Schools cited the expiration of federal funds as the reason for staffing adjustments affecting the substitute program, disagreeing with the union’s interpretation of the law. Building substitutes, who work full-time in specific schools, play crucial roles beyond temporary classroom coverage, including handling long-term vacancies and maintaining educational continuity.
