From staff and wire reports
COLUMBUS – The Columbus City Schools Board of Education and the union representing striking teachers are expected to head back to the bargaining table Wednesday in hopes of settling the strike, which is entering its third day.
Reportedly, a federal mediator has called the two sides to a meeting at 1:00 p.m. to resume contract negotiations.
Wednesday is the first day of classes for the 2022-23 school year, but the district’s 47,000 students are learning remotely at home or at centers set up by the city, the Columbus Metropolitan Library and some nonprofit organizations.
The city has opened nine Department of Recreation and Parks community centers, while YMCA of Central Ohio and Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Ohio provide learning centers and Columbus Metropolitan Library is making all of its branches available as safe spaces for students to access online lessons.
The city is also making sure students who rely on free and reduced-price meals at school will have access to that food during the strike.
“Food insecurity is a challenge too many families here in Columbus face. We offer support to families throughout the year, and it’s important to remind residents of what’s available to them,” said Recreation and Parks Department director Bernita Reese said
“Grab and go” meals are available at 25 school sites across the city from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Monday through Friday beginning Wednesday. Students can pick up lunch as well as breakfast for the next day.
Beginning Thursday, breakfast and lunch will be provided at the student support centers operated by the city, the YMCA, the Boys and Girls Clubs and the library.
The Columbus Education Association, which represents more than 4,000 teachers, librarians, nurses and other employees, says the strike is about a commitment to modern schools, smaller class sizes and a well-rounded curriculum that includes art, music and physical education.