Published On: July 9, 2019
BOSTON, MA –  The Boston Teachers Union (BTU) launched a paid ad campaign today, calling attention on the unstable learning environments at City on a Hill Public Charter Schools in Roxbury and New Bedford, caused by the Board of Trustees’ refusal to negotiate a contract for educators and staff.

The BTU believes that the working conditions of City on a Hill (CoaH) employees are directly connected to the learning environment of students. However, educators at the three City on a Hill Schools (CoaH Dudley Square, CoaH Circuit Street, and CoaH New Bedford) are working without a contract that provides fair compensation, equitable pay, benefits, educator voice, and working conditions that would encourage a positive learning environment. They are seeking a contract that would improve teacher retention and reduce the instability that has plagued the schools.

By releasing these advertisements, the BTU is signaling that it is time for the City on a Hill Board of Trustees and CEO Kevin Taylor to take this issue seriously.

“Educators and staff at City on a Hill Charter Schools have waited long enough for a fair contract. Our ad campaign will show parents, community members, and leaders our vision for what a contract could accomplish for  students,” said Erik Berg, Boston Teachers Union Executive Vice President. “CoaH’s mission statement stresses the importance of academic achievement and teacher leadership, and we believe that a strong contract will support this mission.”

City on a Hill Circuit Street teacher Hannah Port noted, “What we are seeking is a voice in our workplace, adequate preparation time, and a transparent and predictable salary structure.”

The advertisements feature educators and students from City on a Hill Schools. They began running on July 8, and are being seen by residents in Boston and New Bedford. The BTU intends to continue running these advertisements until the contract situation is resolved.

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The Boston Teachers Union proudly represents more than 10,000 teachers and other professionals including school nurses, psychologists, guidance counselors, paraprofessionals, and substitute teachers. Together, we advocate for the interests of students, parents and education professionals throughout the Boston Public Schools and the City on a Hill Charter Schools in Boston and New Bedford. We support investment in public education to ensure a stronger future for our students and our city. As a union of educators, we are part of a movement that seeks to improve the quality of life for all working people. We are united against all forms of prejudice and bigotry that would seek to devalue the lives or liberties of our students, families or colleagues.

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