Newton Teachers Reach Agreement To End Longest MA Strike In 30 Years

NEWTON, MA — One of the longest teachers' strikes across the state over the past three decades has been resolved in Newton pending the ratification vote of a new four-year contract from members of the Newton Teachers Association.

The NTA and School Committee announced the agreement Friday night after a bitter labor battle that left the teachers without a contract for five months and put students out of school for 11 days during the strike.

School is expected to resume on Monday pending the vote of the full membership.

"We are thrilled to get students and teachers back in their classrooms," Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller said. "We are also thrilled to settle a new four-year contract that honors the tremendous work our teachers do — a contract the city can afford — a contract that serves our students."

The School Committee said Friday night that the deal "reflects our values, including respect for our educators. It reinforces and expands meaningful support for students, meaningful compensation for all employees, particularly our building and classroom aides, maintains Newton as a leader in benefits, and provides important flexibility for our leaders to strengthen and innovate our system."

"This strike has been painful for NPS families and the entire city of Newton," the School Committee said. "We will all need some time to heal, and we ask for patience and leadership from all of the adults in the NPS community. It is up to us to show our kids how a strong community responds to challenges.

"The Committee looks forward to the return of students to their classrooms. We will take a breath, then begin the work of ensuring that this never happens again."