LAKEVILLE, Minn. — Overnight Monday, Lakeville teachers reached a tentative deal on a new two-year contract with the school district, likely avoiding a threatened strike.
The news comes nearly two weeks after members of Education Minnesota Lakeville voted to authorize a strike, and just a few days before educators could have walked out.
“We set out for a fair contract that would do more to recruit, retain and support teachers,” said Carrie Popp, president of the Education Minnesota Lakeville, in a statement. “The support from our community has blown us away - parents, students, former students, community members and other school staff made this possible. I’m glad that the district came to the table with a fair offer so that, together, we could avert a strike.”
Union members are expected to review the deal Wednesday and vote to ratify it on May 13 and 14. More details on the contract are expected after educators review the tentative deal.
Education Minnesota Lakeville and district administrators were stuck on several issues, including higher pay. Teachers are paid $15,000 less than surrounding districts, according to the union.
The Lakeville School District serves about 11,000 students, making it the 10th largest district in the state. The union said about 800 people attended a rally in support of teachers on April 30.
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