Salem-Keizer schools closing early on day of expected statewide teacher walkout

Salem-Keizer Public Schools will close two and a half hours early on May 8 as teachers and other staff are expected to participate in a statewide "Day of Action" to pressure the Legislature for more K-12 school funding.

Beginning at 1:30 p.m., the Oregon Education Association is planning a walkout to advocate for full funding of the state's Quality Education Model — research showing another $2 billion per biennium is needed to expand and improve schools.

Due to the limited number of substitute teachers, and significant staff absences anticipated, Salem-Keizer officials announced Monday they will dismiss students early that day.

The early closure will allow students to receive instruction and nutrition services on an important school day, officials said. Transportation will run on a modified schedule and after-school care will offer extended schedules. 

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"We came to this decision in collaboration with Salem Keizer Education Association and with the support of the Association of Salem-Keizer Education Support Professionals," said district Superintendent Christy Perry.

"We know there are extenuating circumstances like Advanced Placement exams, outdoor school and field trips," she said. "Our intent is to have the majority of these activities go on as planned."

Other school districts across Oregon — including Portland Public Schools and Beaverton School District — have canceled class that day as well.

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Mindy Merritt, president of the Salem Keizer Education Association, said schools can't afford to give students what they need, and that's why advocates are calling on lawmakers to increase funding.

"Our classrooms are bursting at the seams; our students need greater access to social emotional learning and students are missing out on the individual attention they require," she said. "Our students can't wait any longer. It's time — past time — to invest in our schools."

The day of action comes as legislators are finalizing the State School Fund and the district is finalizing its budget.

Contact reporter Natalie Pate at npate@StatesmanJournal.com, 503-399-6745 or follow her on Twitter @Nataliempate or Facebook at www.Facebook.com/nataliepatejournalist. To support her work,become a Statesman Journal subscriber and get unlimited digital access to stories that matter.