Kennewick teachers vote to strike if agreement not reached

The first day of school is slated for next Tuesday, August 27th in our area. But that is very much in doubt in Kennewick.

The union representing the 1,200 teachers voted in favor of going on strike if a tentative agreement is not reached by the 26th.

"We are frustrated that the Kennewick School Board and District are not prioritizing its students and families", Kennewick Education Association president Rob Woodford says. "Our members have said they are seeking competitive salaries with those in the other two cities in the Tri-Cities-Richland and Pasco."

The union and school district have been negotiating since May and have reportedly agreed on several issues, but are not close on salary.