Efforts to unionize teaching staffs at independent charter schools have spread from Cape Cod to Western Massachusetts, creating what could potentially be a new labor movement.
Faculty and staff at Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter School in South Hadley received approval for a union from the state Department of Labor on Feb. 8, enabling them to negotiate a contract with school administration.
They will be represented by Local 2322 of the United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agriculture Implement Workers of America.