UPDATE: West Virginia schools will be in session Thursday, Feb. 21, but unions reserve the right to strike at any time. Educators will closely watch happenings of the House and Senate over the next few days of the legislative session. Note: Some school systems are closed due to weather. Keep track HERE. 

 

Original story: Harrison County teachers and those across the state spent a cold, wet day outside their respective schools, advocating for the future of public education. Educators still had concern that Senate Bill 451 would be revived, but the education reform bill - which included controversial issues such as charter schools and education savings accounts - was officially laid to rest today.

 

However, the standalone pay raise bill that Governor Jim Justice has called upon legislators to pass is now – after swiftly passing through the House Finance Committee – before the House of Delegates. The total estimated cost for five percent teacher and school personnel raises is $67.7 million. (Also included in the bill is $1,821,518 for West Virginia State Police personnel.)

 

West Virginia educators are now concerned that the pay raise bill – House Bill 2730 - will not clear the Senate. It will be days before it all plays out.

 

The House's first reading of the pay raise bill is set for Thursday and the second reading is set for Friday with a vote scheduled Monday. There is a public hearing concerning the bill set for 8 a.m. Friday, requested by Kathie Crouse, an advocate for homeschoolers, who is against the teacher pay raise.

 

J.D. Lister, Bridgeport High School representative for the American Federation of Teachers union, encourages local educators to travel to Charleston early Friday to voice positivity for the pay raise.

 

In the meantime, an informal poll was put into action; teachers voting – school by school – as to whether they are ready to return to the classroom.

 

Lister said leadership for the American Federation of Teachers West Virginia, West Virginia School Service Personnel Association and West Virginia Education Association will hold a press conference around 6:15-6:30 p.m., following the House floor session, and that some clarity on tomorrow’s situation should result.

 

Local union presidents are meeting with Superintendent of Harrison County Schools Dr. Mark Manchin prior to that meeting.

 

Check back later this evening for an update and a decision as to whether the teacher strike will continue into Thursday.

 

Editor's Note: Top two photos feature Simpson Elementary teachers. Below are some educators at Johnson Elementary. Check back for several more photos from day two of the 2019 teacher strike.