Despite hefty fines, all 3 North Shore schools cancel class on Friday as teacher strike continues

MARBLEHEAD, Mass. — Educators have canceled school in all 3 North Shore striking districts for a fourth straight day as the illegal teacher strike continues.

In a letter sent home to Marblehead parents around 6 p.m., district officials announced there were no signs of the strike ending and that school would be canceled on Friday.

“We continue to participate in mediation to reach an agreement that is sustainable and meets our students’ educational needs,” said Marblehead School Committee Chair Jennifer Schaeffner.

On Thursday, Marblehead Public School teachers were ordered by an Essex County Superior Court judge to be back in the classroom by 6 p.m.

The deadline passed with no resolution between the union and city officials. As a result, the Marblehead Education Association (MEA) was hit with a $50,000 fine, due by the close of business on Friday.

The MEA will be fined an increase of $10,000 ($60,000 on the second day, $70,000 on the third, etc.) for every day the strike continues, beginning at 3 p.m.

In a Facebook post from the Gloucester School Committee, they say that they are “working tirelessly” with the state mediator to resolve contract disputes.

“Please know that our mediation efforts are ongoing and are starting early every morning and continuing late into the night.” Said Superintendent Ben Lummis.

Both Gloucester and Beverly schools will still offer grab-and-go lunch boxes. Beverly will still offer public transportation to non-Beverly students.

All canceled class days will be made up at the end of the school year, similar to that of a snow day.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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