Despite our best efforts to negotiate in good faith with leadership in the House and Senate and the Governor’s office, we have not been able to make the progress needed to avoid further action. Therefore, AFT-West Virginia, WVEA and WVSSPA have called for statewide action on Thursday, February 22 and Friday, February 23.
Latest developments:
· After today’s meeting between State Superintendent Steve Paine and all county superintendents, the decision to close school on Thursday and Friday remains in the hands of each county superintendent.
· Many locals are coordinating with area churches and community centers to set up child care centers to assist working parents.
· Local presidents are scheduling building rep. or general membership meetings before the walk out dates to ensure clear communication of updates.
· Many locals have already started coordinating with local food pantries to assist children who rely on school meals.
On the days of the walkout, please coordinate people to come to the Capitol, hold informational pickets locally and volunteer for community child care and food distribution. Even if schools are closed, it will be important to have continued informational pickets in our home communities.
Please check email, text and AFT-WV’s social media pages frequently during this time, as developments can unfold rapidly.