Strongsville City School District negotiation deadline nears; Strike vote Sunday

Negotiations continued for the embattled Strongsville City School District Saturday, one day before a final vote to strike.

Teacher union reps and Strongsville City Schools District board members gathered in Independence, Ohio for the second time this week trying to find an agreement.

Friday, teachers were seen leaving Strongsville High School with boxes full of personal belongings and hugging students as they walked out of schools. The district's 383 teachers had until 3:15 p.m. to turn in their keys, identification cards, district-provided laptop computers and teaching materials.

If a tentative agreement is not reached, teachers will begin their strike at midnight March 3, 2013.

The teachers are nearing a potential strike over what they claim to be unfair terms in contract negotiations with the Strongsville City Schools Board of Education.

 "We will continue to keep the community informed regarding our preparations for a strike, which appears to be likely. And, certainly we will announce good news of a settlement, if we have that to report " said Strongsville School Board President David Frazee late Saturday afternoon.

The SCS BOE has created a webpage with helpful information and answers to questions that is available for families and the community.

Friday, a letter to parents was sent home warning of the strike and who could possibly become their child's next teacher until the situation is resolved, fueling even deeper concern.