Shammas' statement on possible APS teacher strike

Akron's youth have faced so many challenges in the past several years – COVID-19, virtual learning, growing safety concerns in both our neighborhoods and schools, and more. Our students don't need another interruption in their lives, which is what Monday’s planned strike would bring.

Our APS teachers deserve more support in the classroom. So many of us have benefited from incredible APS teachers - dedicated people who are constantly going the extra mile. Teaching has gotten harder and harder lately, and our teachers deserve to know that their concerns are being taken seriously, especially on safety.

The divide between APS administration and the union is large, but I am sure that there is a fair deal to be made, a deal in which the whole community will play a role. For one thing, we're all going to have to acknowledge a hard truth - that the future of Akron Public Schools likely depends on both a new levy and real cost cutting. And for everyone to be safe in our schools - students, teachers, support staff, and administrators - it will take a lot of hard work, and new partnerships inside and outside our school buildings.

I'm mindful that my job on City Council does not come with an invitation to any bargaining table. But I also know that each of us has a stake in Akron's youth. The decisions being made now will impact our entire community for years to come. We must get it right.

I sincerely hope that the outstanding disagreements can be resolved this weekend, so that we can all rally around our Akron Public Schools and get back to work tackling the larger challenges facing our community, together.