Teachers Ratify Invalid Contract

Hawaii public school teachers have voted in favor of a contract they previously rejected.

In a letter to the Hawaii State Teacher’s Association, President Wil Okabe informed union members that they had voted 66% to 34% in favor of the January agreement, stating “This vote is a testament that democracy is as strong as ever among the HSTA membership.”

Okabe attempted to put the onus for validating the contract back on Governor Neil Abercrombie, who has said the previously rejected contract was invalid, stating, “Just as teachers reconsidered their position, we are now asking the governor to reconsider his.”

Hawaii State Teachers Association. Image courtesy of University of Hawaii

The governor responded in a press release, saying “now is a good time for HSTA to submit a new proposal for discussion. When HSTA decides to return to collective bargaining, the vote results will be seriously considered. Our team remains prepared to negotiate.”

The 2011-2012 public school year ends for students on May 24^th.