Boston Teachers Union Supports New Bedford Charter School Teachers with Ad

BOSTON — A New Bedford charter school's teachers are getting support from the Boston Teachers Union.

The Boston Teachers Union (BTU) launched a paid ad campaign Monday, calling attention on what they call “the unstable learning environments at City on a Hill Public Charter Schools in Roxbury and New Bedford,” caused by the Board of Trustees' refusal to negotiate a contract for educators and staff.

The BTU believes that the working conditions of City on a Hill (CoaH) employees are directly connected to the learning environment of students. However, the BTU says educators at the three City on a Hill Schools–CoaH Dudley Square, CoaH Circuit Street, and CoaH New Bedford–are working without a contract that provides fair compensation, equitable pay, benefits, educator voice, and working conditions that would encourage a positive learning environment. They are seeking a contract that would improve teacher retention.

By releasing these advertisements, the BTU is signaling that it is time for the City on a Hill Board of Trustees and CEO Kevin Taylor to take this issue seriously.

"Educators and staff at City on a Hill Charter Schools have waited long enough for a fair contract. Our ad campaign will show parents, community members, and leaders our vision for what a contract could accomplish for students," said Erik Berg, Boston Teachers Union Executive Vice President.

The advertisements feature educators and students from City on a Hill Schools. They began running on July 8, and are being seen by residents in Boston and New Bedford. The BTU says it intends to continue running the advertisements until a resolution.

The Boston Teachers Union represents more than 10,000 teachers and other professionals including school nurses, psychologists, guidance counselors, paraprofessionals, and substitute teachers. The BTU also advocates for the interests of students, parents and education professionals throughout the Boston Public Schools and the City on a Hill Charter Schools in Boston and New Bedford.