RTA protests in support of students regarding renovations at Strough Middle School
-->By: Jennifer Lee
Updated: October 17, 2012
One area teachers union is not too happy about its school board's decision to move its students during renovations.
The Rome Teachers Association or RTA is picketing tonight to send a message to the Board of Education.
The Board of Education met at Ridge Mills Elementary Wednesday night. Which is why teachers, parents and even students wanted to voice their concerns about renovations that will be going on at Strough Middle School during the 2013-2014 school year.
Last year in December voters passed a referendum to renovate Strough Middle School. But, the$ 25-million construction would have to move 7th and 8th grade students to Staley Upper Elementary for the next school year. The board approved that relocation plan earlier this month.
This means, fifth and sixth graders at Staley will have to move around as well. Upcoming fifth graders will have to remain at their current schools for another year and sixth graders will be going to Fort Stanwix School.
Although teachers and parents are for the renovations, they say this temporary move will affect students greatly. The RTA says they are concerned about student learning and how this move will disrupt the educational process. They say the school board could have looked at different options.
The Teachers Association says the renovations will affect about 70 percent of their students. And although, construction is just for a year, the union president says there is a chance it all won't be done within a school year.
In response to the protesting, Superintendent Jeffrey Simons tells Eyewitness News: "The Rome City School District's plan ensures the health and safety of our students and staff during the renovation period. This is a temporary arrangement which will maintain quality educational programs for students and staff."
