Indiana Teacher Union Boss-Led “Day of Action” Forces School Closures and Disrupts Education Across Indiana
A statewide “Day of Action” organized by the Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA) Union Bosses has led to widespread disruptions in school operations across several Indiana districts, including Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), Pike Township Schools, and Monroe County Community School Corporation. The coordinated demonstration caused staffing shortages so severe that multiple districts were forced to cancel in-person learning or move to virtual instruction.
Indianapolis Public Schools announced that it could not safely operate schools on Monday, April 14, due to the number of staff participating in the action. “Despite our best efforts, we have not been able to identify enough staff coverage to feel confident in our ability to safely operate schools,” IPS said in a statement.
Because IPS had already used its allotment of asynchronous learning days for the year, the district is now also required to extend the school year.
Other school districts are experiencing similar challenges. In Pike Township, 184 staff members had requested the day off as of Friday, forcing the district to adjust operations. Monroe County Community School Corporation also announced it would move all K-12 students to independent e-learning for the day due to a high number of teacher absences.
With the “Day of Action” taking precedence over education, many parents and students are frustrated by the disruption to learning and the scheduling burdens created by the protest.
While union officials often pressure educators and staff to participate in walkouts and demonstrations, it’s important for them to understand their rights. Participation in union-led actions like this is 100% voluntary. Public school employees cannot be forced to strike or attend political demonstrations, and those who choose not to take part may continue working. Thanks to Janus Rights, public employees may also opt out of union membership and dues at any time, freeing themselves from union rules and penalties tied to events like the “Day of Action.”
Source: WFYI
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
