Detroit Teachers Stage Sick Out for Second Straight Day
Nearly all Detroit schools were closed a second day on Tuesday, May 3, when teachers continued a sick out and protested at the school central office building.
The Detroit chapter of the American Federation of Teachers organized the sick out after leaders were told the school district would not have enough money to pay its teachers after June 30. It would mean teachers who are paid over 12 months, rather than just the school year, would lose pay they had already earned.
The district’s emergency manager is relying on state lawmakers to pass funding for the district in order to pay the teachers. If funding isn’t secured, summer school would be canceled and special education extended services would be suspended.
On Tuesday, representatives from the national organization accused Detroit school officials of wage theft during a press conference as the teachers rallied outside.
Meanwhile, the Michigan House of Representatives advanced legislation that would pay the district $500 million. The plan, though, is less than the $715 million plan the state senate approved last month. Credit: Instagram/James Felton Keith
