Medford, Ore. — Words from the Medford School District and Medford Education Association Friday were music to their ears for many in the Medford community. A more then two week long strike is now finally over.
“I’m so excited, my heart just broke that they couldn’t get the fair contract that they wanted,” said South Medford High student Kristen Shue.
She said when she found out her teachers were going on strike she didn’t realize what an impact it would have on her.
Friday both teams agreed on a preliminary contract agreement at around 10 p.m after four consecutive days of bargaining. Teachers said the last two weeks haven’t been easy.
“It was really rough to be out there and have our students go in and out,” said Tim Ponzhoa.
“It’s heartbreaking seeing the parents walk by me and get off the buss seeing the parents drive by waving at us it was excruciating,” said Dan Jones.
But teachers said they needed a fair contract and although it wasn’t an ideal way to get it, they’re just happy to be back in the classroom Monday.
“It’s the kids, I mean that’s really what we’re there for and when we walked around on Thursday it was amazing how many kids followed us to every venue we went to and just said you know we need you back.”
“I look forward to seeing 32 smiling faces looking up at me Monday morning and you know looking back at them with a big smile on my face and just saying we got through it lets move on and get to what we do.”
The MEA said they’ll be getting ready in their classrooms Sunday. The plan is to have everyone back in their normal classrooms Monday.
© 2024 KOBI-TV NBC5. All rights reserved unless otherwise stated.