

Contract negotiations between the teachers union and Harlem (IL) School Board are at a standstill. But talks between teachers and parents are starting strong. Harlem teachers held a community meeting this afternoon, at the start of what should be the second week of school for students.
And with classes and extracurriculars canceled indefinitely until an agreement is reached, patience is dwindling. It was standing room only. A mix of ages, and a mix of opinions.
"It's greed on their part, very simply. If they don't like it, go somewhere else," says Dan Hall. "Bring in teachers that want to teach." "They shouldn't have to sit out and wait until the teachers get what they want," says James Stripling. "I mean everybody wants more money. It's never going to end."
When it comes to the ongoing strike, and the fighting among adults, it's the kids who are unfairly sidelined. "It's a little disheartening when we have to forfeit our first game," says Harlem High School football player Andrew Davis. "We put in the effort during the summer, we weight lifted, we conditioned, and we're still putting it in now. And we're practicing for a game that may never be played. It's going to affect or college visits for scholarships and stuff."
"They work hard, they should get a pay raise," says Harlem High School Sophomore Zach Brazel.
"Teachers deserve every bit they get and in this district. I don't believe they get enough," says Tom Papini.
But long-time Harlem High School math teacher... Bill Dredge says it's a matter of raising wages to attract and retain quality teachers.
"Their pay is not close to being equitable and they're being hired away, so there is this turnover," describes Dredge. "We had 120 teachers this year, not including retirees that were lost."
Some parents believe the solution lies in their own hands.
"If the board and superintendent isn't going to support the teachers, we have to come together here and find a way to get somebody that's going to do that," says Papini.
There's a Harlem School Board meeting tomorrow night at six. Many parents and teachers who were at the meeting today say they plan to be in-attendance tomorrow wearing their school colors. They encourage all community members to attend. As of now, no new bargaining sessions have been announced.
(wrex.com)