Public schools in Newton, Massachusetts continued to be shut down on Friday for the sixth consecutive day as teachers remained on strike. The strike, authorized by the Newton Teachers Association (NTA) last Thursday, has resulted in a fine of $375,000 for the union thus far. A judge ruled that an additional $50,000 would be added to the fine if the strike extends into Monday.

On Friday morning, a group of approximately 50 students gathered on the steps of Newton City Hall to show solidarity with the striking teachers. Despite the rain, parents and teachers stood under ponchos and umbrellas, listening to impassioned speeches from students ranging from elementary school to high school age. Many of the students called on the Newton School Committee and Mayor Ruthanne Fuller to take more decisive action to reach a resolution.

While both the district and the union have reported progress on minor issues, they remain far apart on major matters, including pay raises, leading to an impasse in the negotiations. The Newton School Committee released a statement on Friday afternoon, stating that they were waiting for responses to several proposals. The committee emphasized the need for compromise, collaboration, and meaningful discussions with real compromise and partnership from the NTA.

Meanwhile, the strike's impact on students continues to draw concern from various parties. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed her support for students returning to school and urged both sides to negotiate outside of the classroom. "It is so devastating for kids and these parents. It's gone on and on, and my hope is: Get back in the classroom, negotiate outside, but let's get these kids back in school," Gov. Healey stated on Friday.

Emotions ran high on Thursday night as leaders of the Newton Teachers Association held a news conference to share their frustrations about the negotiation process. NTA President Michael Zilles criticized the Newton School Committee for refusing to bargain and accused them of playing a waiting game instead of actively seeking a resolution. Zilles highlighted that there were no specific issues that the union couldn't reach an agreement on.

The strike in Newton is part of a larger trend across the state, as educators in five other communities have also participated in strikes since May 2022. However, it is important to note that striking is legally prohibited for teachers in Massachusetts.

As the strike continues, Middlesex County Superior Court Judge Chris Barry-Smith expressed concerns about escalating coercive fines. While he acknowledged the need for the fines to incentivize resolution, he emphasized that excessive fines could undermine the collective bargaining process, which is meant to be the solution.

Amidst the ongoing strike, both the Newton School District and the NTA have been urged to find common ground and resolve the issues at hand. The hope is that negotiations will resume, allowing students to return to their classrooms soon.