Albany teachers’ union authorizes strike as bargaining talks with district stall [Video]

ALBANY, Ore. (KPTV) – For the first time since 1987, the Greater Albany Education Association (GAEA) voted to authorize a strike should the union and school district fail to come to terms within the next ten days to two weeks.

“With all votes cast, 582, or 92% voted to authorize a strike,” said one election committee member as the voting was announced.

President and teacher, Dana Lovejoy told the media in a press conference that the bargaining team has put two deals on the table and expects District Superintendent, Andy Gardner, and the board to be willing to compromise or expect to see hundreds walk out on Nov. 12.

“A strike vote represents a difficult but necessary decision by our group, our educators don’t take this step lightly,” said Lovejoy. “We do it because we’re dedicated to the students and community we serve.”

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