Support needed for EP teachers in contract talks

During the 25 years my family has had children in Eden Prairie public schools, our kids have had teachers dedicated to delivering on the district’s purpose (as stated on its website): “… [To] create an environment of care and support where each student is inspired every day … knowing each of them as learners and individuals, recognizing their skills and motivations and pushing them to excel.”  I was dismayed to learn recently that these same teachers are working under an expired contract agreement and dealing with challenges to their ability to continue delivering that kind of experience for district students. 

Our teachers are concerned about workload, with class sizes frequently exceeding district maximums, insufficient prep time, and overly large caseloads for specialists, counselors, social workers, and other supporting staff. They are concerned about maintaining safety in classrooms and hallways and in need of full support from their schools’ administration.  They are concerned about retention, as over 125 teachers have left the district each of the past two years, including unprecedented mid-year resignations. These concerns are on top of any regarding the financial elements of their contract. Our schools will struggle to maintain teaching consistency and quality under these circumstances. 

I encourage Eden Prairie parents to show support for our teachers in their contract negotiations. And I urge Eden Prairie Schools administration to move expeditiously to complete a new contract that shows teachers they are valued and helps address concerns, reduce attrition risk and ensure the continued quality and character of our district.

Bart Reed, Eden Prairie

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