The Sheridan School District has canceled classes for the remainder of the week after nearly 100 teachers and staff members initiated a strike on Wednesday.

Strike Details and Cause

The strike impacts all five schools within the district, which serves students in Sheridan, and portions of Englewood and Littleton. The Sheridan Educators Association, representing teachers, mental health providers, bus drivers, and other staff, is protesting the district’s decision not to reinstate their collective bargaining agreement.

Union Recognition Dispute

According to the association, district officials informed staff in December that their union was no longer recognized and ceased transmitting teacher dues. This action prompted the current labor dispute and subsequent strike action.

District Response and School Closures

District officials announced the school closures in a letter to families on Tuesday. They stated that despite efforts to remain open, anticipated staff absences would prevent them from safely maintaining normal school operations.

Support for Students During Closure

The district will provide to-go lunches for students and families at Fort Logan Northgate during the school closure. This aims to mitigate the impact of the strike on student access to meals.

Recent Colorado News

This strike occurs alongside other recent legislative actions in Colorado, including the passage of a housing bill and consideration of restrictions on ICE. Additionally, a 12-year-old boy from Fort Collins recently won the Colorado spelling title and will advance to the Scripps National Bee.

Other recent news includes a Supreme Court ruling regarding a ban on ‘conversion therapy’ and a judge dismissing a Trump administration lawsuit concerning immigration laws.