Mediation continues into next week, families encouraged to plan for possible teacher strike starting Thursday, Jan. 8

Over winter break, the Anoka-Hennepin Schools negotiation team met with Anoka Hennepin Education Minnesota (AHEM) twice - on Dec. 29 and again on Jan. 2 - in an effort to continue to find a solution for an updated agreement that both values the impact of teachers and recognizes the tight budget parameters that are a reality in our school district. 

Need to know: Anoka-Hennepin and AHEM exchanged proposals during an eight-hour mediation session Friday, Jan. 2, but were unable to reach an agreement. Because the process is in mediation, information on specific proposals is not able to be shared by law. 

• Mediation will continue next week with a session scheduled for next Tuesday, Jan. 6 - and it is possible a strike may be avoided, or delayed to a different date - however, the district believes it is important to communicate with families to prepare for a possible strike next week. 
• AHEM delivered an official notice of intent to strike to the school district on Dec. 22, announcing a proposed strike date of Thursday, Jan. 8. 

What happens if AHEM calls a strike? Due to legal and safety reasons, many of the school district operations will need to be immediately suspended in the event of a strike. Please note the following impacts in the event of a teacher strike:

• School is closed. All school sites and regularly scheduled classes will be closed and regular student transportation routes will not operate. 
• No alternative child-care. Child care is not possible for all students out of school during the strike due to licensing and staffing limitations. Adventures Plus will provide Non-School Day (NSD) care in the event of a strike for a limited number of currently enrolled families only. 
• Activities and athletics will be immediately suspended. The District has determined that there are not sufficient certified coaches, activities advisors and event staff necessary to safely operate activities and be in compliance with Minnesota State High School League requirements at this time. This directive encompasses middle school athletics and activities, as well as all school-based elementary events and activities.
• Community Education adult recreation and enrichment programs, Project Power adults with disabilities, aquatics, preschool screening, and facility rentals will continue. 
• Community Education PreK-8 enrichment and athletics will be suspended.
• Community Education ECFE and Preschool classes will be suspended. 

Avoiding a strike remains possible: Even though a strike has been announced, negotiations will continue and it is possible a strike may be avoided, or delayed to a different date. Check the district website at www.ahschools.us/negotiations for updates for announcements and details. 

Be prepared: Families, staff and community members are encouraged to visit ahschools.us/negotiations to make plans in the event that a strike occurs.

• Browse frequently asked questions (FAQs) to understand how a strike will impact students.
• See offers and proposals presented by both the district and AHEM before moved to mediation in Sept. 
• Review detailed information about the district’s budget situation. 

More information: The school district has compiled additional information including a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section at ahschools.us/negotiations The site will be updated regularly as questions arise.

Parents and guardians of students should remain alert to their email and text messages for additional information about school closures due to a potential strike.