Teacher strike causes West Virginia schools to shut down statewide

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Schools across West Virginia have been on strike across the state for three consecutive days. Many are claiming that their love for their students and their work just isn’t enough anymore. West Virginia hasn’t had an across-the-board pay increase since 2014, there’s a lack of substitutes, lack of appropriately credited teachers, lack of significant raises and most importantly, the lack of funding for healthcare insurance is driving teachers out of the state by the busload.

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And the schools are feeling the heat. According to The Huff Post, teachers have been in the halls of the state’s capitol since last week. One teacher, Katie Cole, spoke to HP about three school days she had to take off due to a medical emergency, which resulted in a teacher’s aide and a helpful parent taking over the class. There was no one else properly qualified in the entirety of her school available to step in. 

The teacher shortage is a worry to many, as the younger generations of teachers are fleeing to other states for higher pay due to student loans in the ten thousands.  

“There’s just no reason to stay here, especially the ones who aren’t married,” said second-grade teacher Patty Hamilton to the HP. Hamilton has been at the same school for 30 years. “It’s very sad that this is happening.”

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The issue is reaching a level of crisis. According to the National Education Association, West Virginia ranks 48 out of 50 states for decent teacher pay, and it was only one out of five states to see a decrease in pay in 2016. Business cuts over the years has left West Virginia with little to no money for raises that could alleviate the situation. 

The statewide walkout was initially scheduled for only last Thursday and Friday, but has spilled over into this week with the help of local unions. Still, West Virgina’s public sector workers can not legally strike since the state does not allow collective bargaining rights. Schools could essentially order teachers back to work or continue at the expense of their jobs. However, the support from the public proves that would be a horrible mistake.

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Some teachers are considering moving, which could gain them an additional $10,000 a year just outside of the borders of WV. Others who prefer to stay are hoping that some sort of remedy will occur soon. At this time, all 55 counties are still onboard for the strike. It is their hope that Republican Gov. Jim Justice will make a satisfactory offer.