Moses Lake teachers threaten strike as contract talks stall over funding cuts
Moses Lake School District and its educators are at loggerheads over a labor agreement, with local teachers planning to strike if no deal is reached by the day after Thanksgiving. The district has requested mediation, while the union, Moses Lake Education Association, has authorized a strike after the district failed to address their concerns.
The district is currently $8 million short of its 2023-2024 funding levels, despite a levy passed by the union in February. The situation has been exacerbated by cost-cutting measures such as reduced elementary school hours and eliminated specialist programs. Looking ahead, the 2025-2026 budget allocates a significant 84.5%, or $122.2 million, to salary and benefits.
The union, representing 90% of its members, has voted to support a strike. They insist on having the necessary support to effectively teach before agreeing to a labor deal. The union's executive board member has agreed to lead the strike if no agreement is reached by the specified date. The district, however, has expressed safety and legality concerns that may lead to temporarily suspending classes in case of a strike.
Both parties aim to reach a fair and sustainable agreement, with the district prioritizing long-term financial stability and responsible use of public funds. The union, meanwhile, seeks to ensure effective teaching conditions. As the deadline approaches, both sides are preparing for potential disruptions, with educators ready to strike and the district considering mediation.
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