Talks continue on Archdiocesan high school negotiations

While marathon talks hoping to reach a new contract between the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and its high school teachers continue, the union plans to meet today to vote on their next step.

Classes for archdiocesan high schools are supposed to start Wednesday morning.

Representatives from the Association of Catholic Teachers 1776 met with archdiocesan representatives throughout the weekend in an effort to avert a strike. The contract expired at midnight Aug. 31.

Teachers will vote at 10 a.m. today at Penns Landing Caterers in Philadelphia.

“There are a number of critical items that remain unresolved,” Irene Tori, Vice President of ACT, said. “They are in the areas of salary, medical and working conditions.

“In addition,” Tori continued, “since the teachers have had one-year contracts for the last four years, the teachers are very strong on wanting a multi-year contract.”

Of the process, Tori said, “I am hoping we will be able to get this done.”

Jason Budd, chief negotiator for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, confirmed the Monday bargaining session.

“Sessions have started with both sides working hard at the table today,” he said. “The archdiocesan team is committed to working toward on a continued basis to provide for the needs of our students and school families. We are grateful to them for choosing a Catholic education and all of the benefits it provides.”

He, too, spoke about his hopes for a beneficial conclusion.

“We seek a resolution that is fair to our families and teachers with a timely start to the 2018-2019 school year,” Budd said.

These talks impact only the 17 Archdiocesan high schools, impacting 11,600 students and 600 full-time unionized teachers. Elementary schools are not included in these discussions.