10/17/2011 7:30:00 PMCleveland teachers must agree to concessions: editorial

October 17, 2011

By The Plain Dealer Editorial Board 

A dangerous game of chicken is being played out in the Cleveland public schools that could hurt both the city and its schoolchildren. Schools CEO Eric Gordon wants to keep almost 300 recalled teachers on the payroll so important school reform efforts can stay on track. To do that, he needs modest concessions from the Cleveland Teachers Union.

So far, the union hasn't budged, even though it previously agreed to a partial step-pay freeze and other concessions. Those givebacks expired last June. When they were agreed, neither side anticipated needing an extra $13.2 million to cover a higher payroll and bigger-than-expected state budget cuts.

Last week, Gordon recommended to frustrated Board of Education members that they close the budget hole by cutting preschool, sports, busing and other critical programs that help urban youngsters succeed in school.

"I don't think there's a good cut they have recommended," offered David Quolke, the teachers union chief.

At least they agree on something. Quolke says he is wary of the district's budget numbers, but time is short. The deadline to settle this matter without ending up on the state's fiscal watch or caution list is Oct. 31.

Quolke described negotiations as "ongoing." Both sides have been tight-lipped in public.

Wage and step freezes are never popular. Yet the union should consider that Issue 2, which limits public-employee unions' bargaining rights, has won support from officials in some cities and school systems who feel hog-tied at the bargaining table. Voters will decide Issue 2 on Nov. 8.

The Cleveland Teachers Union has the chance to show that, when jobs and academic gains are on the line, teachers are more than ready to accept sacrifices.  Full story