Rep. Athena Hollins
PRESS RELEASE
Minnesota House of Representatives
District 66B, 651-296-4224, rep.athena.hollins@house.mn
539 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lindy Sowmick
989-289-8593 or lindy.sowmick@house.mn
February 25, 2022
Rep. Athena Hollins issues statement on SPFE intent to strike
SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, Rep. Athena Hollins (DFL - Saint Paul) released the following statement regarding Wednesday’s news that the Saint Paul Federation of Educators filed a notice of intent to strike:
“Our educators are fighting for the things our students and families need-- mental health supports, guaranteed recess, smaller class sizes, more one-on-one time with educators and support staff, and fair pay - especially for our support staff, because one job should be enough,” said Rep. Athena Hollins. “As a legislator, but also as a parent of a St. Paul Public School student, I know that we need to invest in our educators. We are struggling to keep educators and staff in our schools. We are struggling to get students the time that they deserve, with classes that are too large. We are struggling to serve our students adequately—kids who have trauma, and kids that are English language learners. Now is not the time to move backwards on student benefits or to keep educator pay stagnant.
“Two years ago, when The Saint Paul Federation of Educators took the courageous and historic step to strike, they were fighting for these same needs. I supported them and walked with them on the picket lines in 2020 with my 3rd grader. I will do so again this year.
“It shouldn’t have to take strike votes to get SPPS leadership to the bargaining table. It’s time for the district to listen to families and educators and settle a contract that makes reasonable and affordable investments in our students and school staff. I stand with The Saint Paul Federation of Educators as they fight for what students need to thrive.”
The union represents around 4,000 teachers and school staff. The union’s strike in 2020 lasted three days.
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