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August 26, 2008
DEJONGH ADMINISTRATION REMAINS COMMITTED TO MEDIATION PROCESS DESPITE JOB ACTION BY TEACHERS IN ST. THOMAS - ST. JOHN DISTRICT Governor John deJongh, Jr. said Tuesday that the government’s negotiating team will continue its participation in the mediation efforts underway with the American Federation of Teachers Union towards a new contract despite the job action launched in the St. Thomas-St. John district today. The job action has caused the early dismissal of students from seven schools. “My decision to have the Chief Labor Negotiator, Education Commissioner and Assistant Education Commissioner continue through the mediation process is in the best interest of the students and teachers as together we must resolve the issues that are keeping us apart in the effort towards a new contract,” deJongh said. DeJongh implored teachers who have participated in the job action to return to their classrooms. “It is unfortunate that this type of action has taken place in the opening days of the new school year. My administration continues to work diligently with the AFT towards resolving the differences that exist. This must however be a concerted effort by both sides. We share the same goals of providing the type of education that our students deserve.” The mediation process began on Monday and deJongh said the administration’s team will be relentless in its efforts to bring about a new contract for the hard-working teachers, paraprofessionals and support staff in the public school system. |
