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Pasco School Workers Protest Along U.S. 41

Tribune photo by FRED BELLET

William Crawford, a Wesley Chapel High School teacher, takes part in a rally on U.S. 41, part of the United School Employees of Pasco's efforts for a raise.

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By RONNIE BLAIR | The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 16, 2008

LAND O’ LAKES - Teachers and other school workers protested in front of Pasco County School District administrative offices this afternoon, calling on the school board to give them raises.

They joined in chants, such as, "Do the right thing, not the easy thing."

They also waved signs with messages such as "devotion deserves rewards" and "Honk to support teachers."

The protest, organized by United School Employees of Pasco, came just before a school board budget hearing.

One month into the school year, the employees still don't have a contract, although negotiations are scheduled to continue this week.

The school board was poised to approve a $1.2 billion budget this evening.

Although raises aren't included, the budget could be amended later when a contract agreement is reached.

About 200 school employees lined both sides of U.S. 41 during the protest. They are concerned they will get neither raises nor their annual step increases.

Reporter Ronnie Blair can be reached at (813) 948 -4218 or rblair@tampatrib.com.

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