Robbinsdale Area School Families Hold Rally in Support of Teachers Working Without Contract

Robbinsdale Area School District parents are raising their voices in support of their children’s teachers. This Monday, it came in the form of a rally calling for a fair contract.

District 281 educators have been working without a contract since July. They’re currently in negotiations for a contract that would last from 2025 until 2027.

Robbinsdale Federation of Teachers President Peter Eckhoff said the last offer, prior to mediation, was no salary increase for year one, and a 1 percent increase in year two. The offer had no additional benefits.

Beth Wise, co-leader of Parents for Good Robbinsdale, said more than 500 people turned out for the rally. The group started at the New Hope Hy-Vee and walked a block to the district building.

“The better supported teachers are, whether that’s financially or in classroom, the better it is for our students. It’s a direct trickle-down,” Wise said. “If we’re going to prioritize supporting students, then we need to simultaneously prioritize supporting the people who provide the direct support.”

Rally-goers hold up signs in support of a fair contract for Robbinsdale School District teachers. (Photo courtesy: Beth Wise)

Wise currently has two kids in District 281. She and her co-leader wanted to show the teachers they have community support and show the district that the community is watching. Wise helps raise awareness on social media with updates on Instagram and Facebook.

She said their group is aware of the budget challenges the district faces, but wants teacher wages to be prioritized in that work.

Parents for Good originally formed within the Anoka-Hennepin school district. The Robbinsdale branch was formed recently. More information on how families can get involved with Parents for Good is available on its website.

During the Monday night meeting, the board held a closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategy.

The next mediation is scheduled for May 5. 

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