Teachers in Park County to return to classrooms

Striking teachers will be back in Park County classrooms Thursday, ending a 10-day strike although no agreement, including a compensation package, has been reached with the school board.

“I am proud to go back to my classroom tomorrow after spending 10 days fighting for my students’ futures,” said Taya Mastrobuono, an elementary school teacher and union president, in a news release. “I know all SPEA (South Park Education Association) members share my enthusiasm to see our kids again and continue the critical work we do to help all students learn, grow and reach their full potential.”

On Tuesday, SPEA, through the Colorado Education Association, filed a request with the Colorado Department of Labor to have “an independent, third party” examine Park County School District finances, the release said.

The union, in the release, claims the school district lacks “financial transparency” and the independent examination, if accepted by the state, will determine “whether or not millions of dollars are held in reserves that PCSD could use to increase educator pay and promote staff stability,” the release said.

Students in the district went back to class Monday with teachers that crossed picket lines and substitute teachers and staffers. Earlier attempts at finding a compromise included bringing in a federal mediator.

The school district said it will continue to pursue positive relations and to provide the best educational opportunities for students.

Last week, Kim Bundgaard, president of Park County RE-2 Board of Education, announced her resignation effective the next school board meeting, scheduled for Nov. 21.

Union officials said Wednesday night that they look forward to working with a new school board. “We will have a new school board starting Nov. 21 and we are optimistic for a fresh, productive start with them,” Mastrobuono said.

The union is preparing to negotiate for a “fair, competitive compensation package.”