North Shore Teachers Rally at State House

Teachers from Beverly, Gloucester, and Marblehead are continuing their strike for better working conditions, including higher wages for paraprofessionals and paid parental leave, now entering its second week. On November 19, educators rallied at the State House, urging Governor Maura Healey to intervene in stalled negotiations, with some unions calling for an end to what they describe as inadequate mediation processes. Classes have been canceled in all three districts, and local school committees are exploring options to make up lost instructional days, including potential cancellation of school vacations. Despite some claims of progress from school officials, union leaders assert that the offers on the table remain insufficient. The unions have also begun facing fines due to the illegal nature of the strike under Massachusetts law. As negotiations remain gridlocked, educators vow to continue their efforts to advocate for their needs.