By Victor Skinner
EAGnews.org

TROUTDALE, Ore. – Teachers in Oregon’s Reynolds school district walked out on students this week over union contract demands – making them the fourth union in the state to employ the despicable negotiating tactic in recent weeks.

As usual, the dispute is about compensation for teachers, and district superintendent Joyce Henstrand told the Associated Press that the sides are “at least $4 million apart.”

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With three weeks left in the school year, district officials were forced to cancel classes Monday after a failed marathon negotiating session.

Teachers with the Reynolds Education Association launched the strike bright and early Monday morning outside Reynolds Middle School. That’s where REA members dialed up the hysteria by alleging they were hit by vehicles – one of which contained district negotiators – as they were picketing near the school exit, the AP reports.

“It doesn’t appear even the sidewalks are safe for our union members,” middle school teacher Shane Pluchos said to an assistant superintendent who was a passenger in one of the vehicles.

Despite the ugly accusations, no legal complaints were filed. Local police apparently recognized the union hoopla for what it was.

“Our bigger concern is that they’re illegally blocking the driveways, creating these risks,” Fairview Police Chief Ken Johnson told the AP.

The REA strike marks the fourth time in the last month that Oregon teachers unions have used students as negotiating pawns. Unfortunately, the tactic works.

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Teachers in Parkrose schools reached a tentative agreement a day before their scheduled strike last month. In the Gresham-Barlow school district, an agreement was reached one day after a strike began.

But in the Eagle Point school district, a new contract was thrown together following an eight-day strike.

Oregon is one of 12 states that have not banned teacher strikes. Until that changes, teachers will continue to interrupt children’s educations to get their way at the bargaining table.

How can any Oregon lawmaker with half a conscience approve of using kids as bargaining chips?

Wake up, Oregon!