Michael Turner, a retired teacher of 23 years says about a week ago, he got a call from the eagle point school district.
“She was wanting to know if i’d be available to sub if there was a strike,” said Turner.
He said the district was prepared to pay a considerable amount of money for him to sub through the end of June.
“She said it would be $385/day which normally when I sub an eight hour day I get $156 take home,” Turner said.
But the district said teachers subbing during the strike will make roughly $330 to work 10 hours.
Michael Remick with the Eagle Point School District says after lunch and other breaks are accounted for,the pay is comparable.
Despite the temptation for extra cash, Turner says he had no choice but to refuse.
“There’s no way in the world I could go across the picket line. [I’ve] just been a part of that team for too long to go against them,” said Turner.
As for the teachers who have made the decision to cross the picket line
“You’d think they’d have a little more feeling and report for their fellow teachers,” expressed Turner.
But he said he understands why younger teachers looking for a check and a foot in the door might do it.
While Turner said his wife just lost her job, even if the district called again, he wouldn’t take the offer. He said he’s showing solidarity for his friends and coworkers still on strike.
Michael turner says he knows of other substitutes who have also turned down offers from the district.
It’s expected substitutes will begin teaching next Monday if the strike continues.
District officials said all of the teachers are licensed and have had background checks.
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